The Sunflower is coming to public transport in Switzerland with the Swiss Federal Railway (SBB).
SBB has become a member of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, introducing the Sunflower lanyard as the first Swiss transportation company in the major urban areas of Zurich and Geneva. The Sunflower lanyard can be collected at sixteen SBB travel centres. Through this initiative, SBB is working with partners and other disability organisations to promote a more inclusive and understanding environment in public transport.
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower aims to raise awareness of invisible disabilities and conditions such as ADHD, autism, mental health issues, and dementia. Globally, around 1.3 billion people live with some form of disability. And up to 80% have a non-visible disability. That is over 1 billion people worldwide, corresponding to nearly one-fifth of the total population. Recognition of the Sunflower symbol is already known in England and many Scandinavian countries – now it will be introduced in Switzerland as well. After Zurich and Geneva, the Sunflower lanyard will be available nationwide at SBB.
The Sunflower lanyard signals to SBB staff that the wearer may require additional support. Wearing the lanyard is entirely voluntary. Each person with an invisible disability or condition decides whether and when they want to disclose it. The lanyard simply indicates that the invisible disability or condition wants to be made visible. No details about the diagnosis need to be provided.
Paul White, CEO of Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, said:
“SBB’s new membership of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is an exciting moment for the growth of the Sunflower and a significant step in disability inclusion in Switzerland. Passengers living with invisible disabilities can feel confident that they can embark on train travel for long or short journeys for business or pleasure, knowing their needs will be acknowledged and supported.”
Learn more about SBB's by visiting their website; sbb.ch