Ask your club to join the Official Hidden Disabilities Sunflower network

You can help your club become part of the global Sunflower network, supporting fans with non-visible disabilities and creating a safer, more welcoming matchday for everyone.

Three easy ways to reach out

  • Send a DM: Copy and send the short message below on social media or messaging apps, no email needed
  • Send an email: Use the example email and update the highlighted placeholders before sending
  • Send a PDF letter: Download and send it by email or post. Personalise only if you want to

Templates you can use

Sunflower icon Ready-to-send messages for your club

Short version (for quick social media messages):

Hi [Club Name], I’d love to see our club join the official Hidden Disabilities Sunflower. It’s a simple way to support fans with non-visible disabilities and make matchdays welcoming for everyone. Please consider taking this step!

Longer, fan-friendly version:

Hi [Club Name/Team],

I love supporting our club, and I want everyone to feel welcome at matches, especially fans with non-visible disabilities. One simple way to make a big difference is by joining the official Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, a globally recognised symbol that shows fans might need a little extra support on matchdays. By taking this step, the club can help ensure all fans feel safe, supported, and included. I hope you’ll consider this initiative and make our club even more welcoming for everyone. Learn more here: [insert URL]

Sunflower icon Ready-to-send email for your club

Email subject: Make our club more inclusive for every fan

Dear [Club Name] Leadership,

I am writing as a proud and dedicated supporter. Matchdays are a highlight for many of us, but for fans with non-visible disabilities, the crowds, noise, and energy can be overwhelming. This can leave supporters feeling unseen, having to leave early, or unable to fully enjoy the game we all love. There is a simple way our club can show its commitment to every fan: by joining the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower.

The official Sunflower lanyard is a discreet way for people to show they have a non-visible disability and may need a little extra support, understanding, or time. This is not about special privileges or skipping queues. It’s about providing equitable support, such as: 

  • Giving clear directions when needed 
  • Offering a quieter space to regroup
  • Allowing a little extra time at entry points

The Sunflower programme is endorsed by CONMEBOL, which encourages all its clubs to become members. 

By joining our club would:

  • Empower staff with training to recognise the Sunflower and provide confident support 
  • Deliver consistent support for fans, from turnstiles to stands
  • Enhance the fan experience, ensuring everyone feels safe and welcome
  • Strengthen our reputation as a leader in inclusion and community engagement (Optional:

You can include a personal story to help your club understand why this matters. If you'd like, use or adapt the example below.)

"As a fan with anxiety, large crowds can be overwhelming. Knowing staff understood I might need a little space or time would give me the confidence to enjoy every matchday fully.”

"My child loves football, but their non-visible disability often makes matchdays challenging. When stadiums recognise and support people like them, our whole family can enjoy the game together with less worry.” 

How it works is simple: 

  • Join: Become an official member of the Sunflower network
  • Train: Complete simple online training to understand and assist
  • Support: Make Sunflower lanyards and communications available so fans know help is there

To learn more, please visit the Sunflower Stadiums page:  https://hdsunflower.com/uk/insights/post/inclusive-football  

I would be grateful if you would consider this small but impactful step. Thank you for your time and for everything you do for our club.

Best regards,

A dedicated fan

Sunflower icon Ready-to-send PDF letter for your club

  • The PDF is ready to send as-is
  • You can print it or attach it to an email
  • Optional: add your name or contact details at the bottom

Download your "Ask your club" template