As travel becomes more accessible, it’s essential that everyone, regardless of their abilities or challenges, enjoys their journey. You might have come across a green lanyard with sunflowers while traveling—this is the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower,. Designed to support those with non-visible disabilities, such as autism, chronic pain, learning disabilities, hearing or visual impairments, and mental health conditions, it discreetly signals the need for assistance.
The sign allows travelers to indicate they may need extra help, time, or patience. While it doesn’t grant special privileges, it helps staff and others recognize that the wearer might require support. Wearing the sunflower is entirely voluntary, giving individuals control over whether to disclose their disability without having to speak up.
In today’s fast-paced world, the needs of those with hidden disabilities can easily be overlooked. The sunflower symbol provides a subtle way for people to receive necessary assistance, fostering empathy and understanding. In this article, we provide key information on how to obtain a sunflower lanyard and practical tips for making travel more inclusive, especially when visiting the Benelux region.
How to Get a Sunflower Lanyard
Getting a sunflower lanyard is free and simple. Many airports, transportation hubs, and tourist attractions across the world now offer them. In most cases, you can request one online or in person at key locations costumer service desk. No proof of a disability is required to request a lanyard.
The Sunflower at the main BENELUX Hubs
As the sunflower initiative gains traction across Europe, some of the most popular cities in the region have embraced it. Let’s take a look at how the program is used in three of the region’s top destinations—Amsterdam, Brussels, and Antwerp—and what travelers can expect when visiting these cities.
Amsterdam: In the Netherlands, Schiphol Airport actively participates in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower scheme. Staff are trained to recognize the sunflower and offer extra support when needed. At popular tourist spots such as the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum, assistance is available for those wearing the sunflower lanyard, including fast-track entrances and guidance from trained personnel (needs to be requested in advance to guarantee it). Public transportation in Amsterdam, including buses, trams, and trains, is increasingly accessible, and staff are becoming familiar with the sunflower symbol to offer help when necessary.
Brussels: Brussels Airport is another key hub that has embraced the sunflower initiative, providing sunflower lanyards at its information desks and ensuring that staff are prepared to assist travelers discreetly. Key attractions in Brussels, such as the Royal Museums of Fine Arts and the Atomium, offer extra help for those with the sunflower, allowing for smoother navigation through busy tourist areas.
Antwerp, Belgium: Antwerp adopted the sunflower program at its airport and central train station. The Museum aan de Stroom (MAS) and the Antwerp Zoo are among the city’s popular destinations where visitors with hidden disabilities can expect greater assistance with the help of the sunflower symbol. Staff in these venues have been trained to understand and respond to the needs of travelers wearing the lanyard, ensuring a more inclusive experience.
Tips for Traveling with a Hidden Disability
With an estimated 1 in 7 people worldwide living with a hidden disability, including conditions such as autism, chronic pain, and mental health challenges, preparing ahead of time ensures a more comfortable and enjoyable trip for everyone involved. If you or someone you’re traveling with has a hidden disability, planning ahead can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth journey. Here are some tips:
Request a Sunflower Lanyard Early: Reach out to airports or major travel hubs before your trip to request a sunflower lanyard in advance.
Notify the Airline or Hotel: Inform airlines, hotels, or transportation providers about your hidden disability so they can offer appropriate accommodations such as priority boarding, accessible seating, or quiet spaces.
Prepare Documents: Though no proof of disability is required to use the sunflower, carrying medical documentation or a doctor’s note may be useful if you need specific accommodations.
Research Accessible Locations: Check which attractions, restaurants, and activities offer accessible services or support for those with hidden disabilities.
Etiquette: What to Do When You See Someone Wearing the Sunflower Sign
If you encounter someone wearing the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyard, it’s important to be mindful of how to approach them. Following these basic guidelines can help ensure that you contribute to a supportive and inclusive atmosphere for those who rely on the sunflower symbol for help. Here are a few tips on what to do:
Be Patient: Individuals wearing the sunflower lanyard may need more time or space to navigate their environment. Don’t rush them.
Offer Help When Appropriate: If someone looks like they need assistance, kindly offer help, but don’t assume they need it just because they’re wearing the lanyard.
Respect Their Privacy: Wearing the sunflower doesn’t mean someone wants to talk about their condition. Be discreet and respect their boundaries.
Avoid Staring or Pointing: Treat them as you would anyone else—avoid drawing unnecessary attention to the lanyard or making them feel uncomfortable.
Don’t Abuse the Sign: Since no proof of disability is required to obtain the sunflower lanyard, it’s essential that only those who genuinely need it request one. Using the lanyard to gain advantages, such as skipping queues, when you don’t have a hidden disability is disrespectful and undermines the needs of those who rely on it.
At Sapiens Travel DMC, we strive to create meaningful, inclusive experiences that allow every traveler to explore with ease and confidence. Let’s continue to support initiatives like the sunflower program, making travel better for everyone.
Commentaires