Redland City Council is a proud member of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower network, and was the first local government authority in Queensland to join this internationally-recognised program.
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower gives individuals the option to wear a discrete sunflower lanyard, badge or wristband on a green background as a visual tool to let others know they have a disability or condition that may not be immediately obvious – and may need a helping hand, understanding, or simply more time.
The initiative aims to encourage greater inclusivity, acceptance and understanding of people living with disabilities such as dementia, vision and hearing impairment and chronic illnesses.
The initiative has been rolled out at Council's customer service centres and libraries, Redland Art Gallery, Redland Performing Arts Centre, Redlands IndigiScapes Centre, Redland Animal Shelter, Redlands Coast Visitor Information Centre and at many Council-run events.
Through the wearing of white sunflower supporter lanyards or pins, Council employees who have undertaken Hidden Disabilities Sunflower training show they are there to provide support and extra help if needed.
If you have a non-visible disability and would like to be a part of the international Sunflower community by wearing a lanyard, pin or band, visit the Hidden Disabilities website for details.
About the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower
Since its launch in 2016 overseas, businesses from every sector have been joining the global Hidden Disabilities Sunflower network - ranging from retail, travel and tourism, transport including airports, railway networks, coach and bus services and ferries, education, healthcare, central and local government agencies to football teams, theme parks, theatres and financial institutions. Read about the history of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower network.
Opting to wear a Hidden Disabilities Sunflower can allow people to disclose discreetly in shops, at work, on transport, or in public spaces that they have a non-visible disability.
What is a hidden disability?
Many people may have a non-visible disability that is not immediately apparent. Non-visible disabilities include diverse conditions that may be:
- temporary, situational or permanent
- neurological, cognitive and neurodevelopmental
- physical, visual or auditory
This may also include sensory and processing difficulties, as well as respiratory, rare diseases and chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes. (Source: Hidden Disabilities Sunflower website)