80% of disabilities, conditions or chronic illnesses are not visibly apparent. Some people find it hard to understand and believe that someone with a non-apparent (sometimes referred to as 'hidden' or 'invisible') disability or condition genuinely needs support.
That's why Clifford Chance in the UK has joined the globally-recognised Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, to provide colleagues and visitors to their London and Newcastle offices with a simple, subtle symbol (typically on a lanyard) to voluntarily wear to show they have a non-apparent disability or condition. This discreetly signifies that the wearer might be doing things a little differently, may need extra help or understanding, or just need more time.
Visitors to the London and Newcastle offices can pick up a Sunflower lanyard from reception. They will not be asked to disclose their non-apparent disabilities when asking for a lanyard. The front-of-house and security teams have undergone training to learn about the Sunflower and what wearing a Sunflower signifies.
Matt Taylor and Simon Persoff, UK Executive Sponsors of Clifford Chance's disability affinity network Enable, commented:
"The Sunflower is an important part of Clifford Chance's commitment to fostering an inclusive environment. We understand that the strength of our team lies in its diversity and by embracing and supporting our colleagues and office visitors with non-apparent disabilities, we help everyone feel welcomed and achieve their best work."
Learn more about Clifford Chance by visiting their website.