HIDDEN DISABILITIES SUNFLOWER PROGRAM
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program is a global initiative designed to help individuals with non-visible disabilities discreetly signal that they may need extra assistance, understanding, or time in various public spaces, such as university, shops, workplaces, and transportation.
By wearing a sunflower lanyard or product, individuals make their hidden disabilities visible, fostering greater awareness and support. Approximately 1.3 billion people globally are living with disabilities and the Sunflower Program plays a vital role in addressing the diverse needs of those whose disabilities are not immediately apparent, empowering them to navigate daily life with greater ease.
WHAT ARE HIDDEN DISABILITIES?
While some of us experience a disability that is visible, many of us have a non-visible disability that is not immediately apparent to others. These can be temporary, situational or permanent. They can be neurological, cognitive and neurodevelopmental as well as physical, visual, auditory and including sensory and processing difficulties. They also include respiratory, rare diseases and chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes.
As diverse as these conditions are, so are your individual access needs and the barriers you face in your daily life. So you can opt to wear the Sunflower to discreetly be seen around university, shops, at work, on transport, or in public spaces.
REQUESTING SUNFLOWER PRODUCTS
If you are a student experiencing a hidden disability and want to make it known through Sunflower products, the Curtin Student Guild offers free lanyards and badges at the Guild reception. To receive these items, fill out the request form linked below.
STAFF TRAINING
As part of our commitment to this affiliation, Guild Student Representatives and professional staff will undergo training to understand hidden disabilities better and learn how to support students who may benefit from the program. This training will equip our team with the knowledge and skills necessary to foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for all students.
HOW CAN YOU SHOW YOUR SUPPORT?
As part of our ongoing commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment at the Curtin Student Guild, we want to ensure that every student feels recognised and understood.
We encourage all students and staff to be mindful of the sunflower symbol and what it represents. Recognising this symbol and its significance can contribute to a more inclusive and understanding campus culture. Whether or not you choose to wear a sunflower lanyard, your awareness and support is much appreciated.
You can access digital resources that help spread awareness of hidden disabilities via the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower website.
If you have any questions or need further support, please contact us.
LEARN MORE
For more information about the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program and how you can support your fellow peers, please visit Hidden Disabilities Sunflower.