What is the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower?
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower was launched in the UK in 2016 and the Sunflower is now a recognised symbol for non-visible disabilities. Many people with a non-visible disability choose to wear a Sunflower lanyard, pin badge or wristband to indicate that they may need extra help, understanding, or just more time.
What is a Non-Visible Disability?
A non-visible disability is a disability that is not always visible by looking at or talking to someone. This could be a learning difficulty, mental health condition, mobility, speech, visual, or hearing impairment. Non-visible disabilities can be permanent or temporary and some non-visible disabilities do not present all the time, for example, migraines or Crohn's disease. Learn more about non-visible disabilities
How can I request a Sunflower lanyard from the University?
For registered students who consider themselves to have a non-visible disability and feel that they would benefit from a Sunflower lanyard, please request a lanyard by completing the form below:
I don't have a non-visible disability. Can I have a Sunflower lanyard?
No. The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyards are exclusively for staff and students with a non-visible disability.
A person is wearing a Sunflower lanyard, can I ask them about it?
The Sunflower lanyard triggers a simple question ‘How can I help you?'
You may sensitively ask the person if there is anything that you can do to help them. But be mindful that not everybody who has a non-visible disability requires help or additional support, so it is important to not make assumptions. It is not appropriate to ask the person about why they are wearing a Sunflower, as many people may not feel comfortable sharing this information.
I have a question about the Sunflower, who do I contact?
Please contact the Equality Diversity and Inclusion Office via edi@herts.ac.uk
I have a question about disability support at Herts, who do I contact?
Please contact Student Wellbeing via studentwellbeing@herts.ac.uk