Nottingham Trent University has announced they are to support the Hidden Disability Sunflower scheme by providing free sunflower lanyards to staff and students.
The Sunflower Lanyard Scheme started in 2016 and it is a discreet way to show people that you may need support, help and possibly extra time due to your hidden disability.
It came after staff at Gatwick Airport felt there was not enough awareness of hidden disabilities between staff and passengers.
The staff at Gatwick teamed up with local and national charities to create the lanyard to make it easier for people to be aware if anyone may need help while at work, university or anywhere.
Hidden disabilities are any conditions that may not have physical signs like learning difficulties, mental health, hearing, speech and visual impairments, and more.
It is important to support everyone, even if their disability is not physical, it does not mean they do not need support.
An Instagram poll revealed that 42% (eight people from 19) of people said they would wear a hidden disability lanyard if they needed to.
This may be because the sunflower lanyard was confused for many people during the coronavirus pandemic when people used the lanyards as a sign for mask-exemption.
Many people felt this took the true meaning away from the lanyard as it confused the meanings and support to those that need it.
Nottingham Trent Student, Callum who voted “no” to wearing a lanyard, said: “Not everyone wants their disability highlighted.
“This special lanyard would just make them stand out more and further the difference between students with a disability and without one.”
However, it will mean staff and students will be able to see and understand the lanyard if they decide they want to wear one.
If you see someone with the lanyard – stay patient and be understanding as not all disabilities and challenges are immediately obvious.
If you want to collect a free Sunflower Lanyard to help you, you can find them at the student service reception desks at all three main NTU campuses, City, Clifton, and Brackenhurst.
To find out more about the lanyard, check the Hidden Disabilities Store.
Lead image: Nottingham Trent University