Sunflower lanyards have existed for some while now to encourage inclusivity, acceptance and understanding. As time passes, more and more people are becoming aware of who might wear one and why.
The sunflower lanyard is a tool for sharing a hidden disability like autism voluntarily, letting people know that a wearer may need additional assistance, understanding, or just more time.
For an autistic person who has never worn one before, it can be hard to decide whether to try one to see if it might help make things easier when out and about. This is because there may be some worries about possible stigma and thoughts that wearing a sunflower lanyard might attract some negative attention.
Information online indicates many autistic people find them useful. The idea is that people have a choice of a visual aid to use to indicate that they have a hidden disability and may need additional support or understanding in public spaces.
Each autistic person will have their own individual challenges and needs when out and about. Commonly, they might need extra time to process information, a quieter environment, or assistance with specific tasks such as working out where to queue or how to use a ticket machine.
Here is some information about sunflower lanyards that explains what they are for and where you can buy one.
The sunflower lanyard scheme is widely recognised in various settings such as airports, supermarkets, and public transport, and aims to make it easier for people to receive the help they need without having to explain their condition repeatedly.
You can get a sunflower lanyard in several ways:
- Supermarkets and Retail Stores: Many large supermarkets and retail stores, such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Marks & Spencer, and Argos offer sunflower lanyards for free. You can usually pick one up at the customer service desk or checkout.
- Airports and Transport Hubs: Most UK airports and some train stations also provide sunflower lanyards. You can ask for one at the information desk or customer service area.
- Online: You can buy a sunflower lanyard online from the Hidden Disabilities Store. They are available for a small fee, typically around £1 plus postage
Here is a link to their website: https://hdsunflower.com/uk/shop.html - Universities and Other Institutions: Some universities and other institutions offer sunflower lanyards to students and staff with hidden disabilities.
Here’s a link to an article that explains more about them – that might be worth a read to help you decide whether to get on and try one: https://news.motability.co.uk/everyday-tips/sunflower-hidden-disability-lanyards-explained/
To hear a personal account of how an autistic person found using a sunflower lanyard helpful click here
