University of Zurich joins the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower

The University of Zurich (UZH) continually strives to ensure inclusion and accessible participation for all of its students and staff with disabilities and chronic illnesses.

UZH aims to increase awareness of non-visible disabilities among staff and students, and across the organisation. As part of these efforts, UZH joined the global Hidden Disabilities Sunflower network this year.

By taking this step, UZH supports its students and staff with invisible disabilities as they navigate their everyday life at the university – regardless of whether they have formally disclosed their disabilities. In addition to UZH, a growing number of international universities and institutions have also joined the Sunflower network.

 

What Are Hidden Disabilities?

Assistive devices such as wheelchairs, hearing aids and prosthetics can indicate that an individual has a disability. However, only about 20 per cent of all disabilities are visible. The large majority of disabilities and chronic illnesses – as well as their related needs and the support they require – are often not immediately apparent to others. Examples of hidden disabilities and chronic illnesses include multiple sclerosis, long Covid, cancer, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders and mental health disorders (e.g. anxiety disorders and depression).

As well as ensuring that everyone is Sunflower trained, UZH is offering Sunflower products to anyone who has a non-visible disability and Supporter products to those who wish to be allies.

Learn more about UZH by visiting their website: edi.uzh.ch