Hidden Disabilities
The Sunflower Lanyard Program (often called the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower) is an international initiative used in airports and other public places to discreetly indicate that a person has a hidden (non-visible) disability and may need extra help, time, or understanding.
The lanyard is voluntary — you don’t need to provide medical proof.
It’s a subtle signal to staff that the person may need:
More time or clearer communication
Access to a quiet space
Assistance with wayfinding, security checks, or boarding
Patience or understanding during interactions
How to Get One
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Most participating airports offer them for free at information desks or assistance counters or you can contact us and we can provide you one.
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You can also order one online from the official Hidden Disabilities Sunflower website.
Would you like me to tell you which airports in your country currently recognize the Sunflower Lanyard?
🌻 What the Sunflower Lanyard Signifies
The wearer (or someone with them, such as a child or elderly relative) has a hidden disability — something that isn’t immediately obvious, such as:
Autism
ADHD
Anxiety disorders
Dementia
Hearing or vision impairments
Chronic pain or fatigue conditions
Learning disabilities
The lanyard is voluntary — you don’t need to provide medical proof.
It’s a subtle signal to staff that the person may need:
More time or clearer communication
Access to a quiet space
Assistance with wayfinding, security checks, or boarding
Patience or understanding during interactions
✈️ At Airports
Many airports around the world (including Heathrow, Gatwick, JFK, Toronto Pearson, Dubai, Sydney, and many more) participate in the program.
If you wear the Sunflower lanyard:
Airport and airline staff trained in the program will recognize it.
They may ask if you need any specific assistance or provide extra support through security or boarding.
It does not provide priority boarding or skip-the-line privileges automatically — it’s about awareness and understanding, not special status.
