The Hidden Disabilities’ global Sunflower program helps people with an invisible disability go about their daily lives. The Airport Authority is a program partner and provides a green lanyard with sunflowers to passengers who wish to wear one. Wearing a lanyard discreetly alerts staff that they have an invisible disability and may need a bit of extra time to have their needs met.
A hidden disability is a limit or challenge that can sometimes or always affect a person’s movements, senses, or daily activities, but…
- It is not obvious to the onlooker
- It can range from a mild to severe limitation
- It varies from person to person
Hidden disabilities don’t have physical signs. Examples of invisible disabilities include:
- Autism
- Cognitive dysfunction
- Debilitating pain
- Fatigue or dizziness
- Learning difficulties
- Mental disorders
- Mobility impairments
- Respiratory conditions
- Speech, visual and hearing impairments
Helping a person with a disability is providing service excellence.
- Ask the person if they need help
- Listen carefully for their answer
- Show kindness, respect, and patience
Remember, there is no single right or wrong way to deal with a situation.
What should you DO when you see someone wearing a lanyard?
- Smile
- Make eye contact
- Ask if you can help
- Talk and act normally
- Speak directly to the person wearing the lanyard (not the accompanying person)
- Listen closely
- Ask questions if you are unclear on what they need
- Give them time to finish what they are trying to say
- Give them your undivided attention
- Describe what you are/will be doing to help them
What should you NOT DO when you see someone wearing a lanyard?
- Ask about their disability
- Make assumptions
- Judge them
- Ignore them
- Pet their service animal
Lanyards are available at these points of service, 24/7.
- PARS 2000 | Level 1, beside carousel 5
- Parking office | Parkade , Level 1, South end
For more information, or to get a Sunflower supporter lanyard, contact the Director of Passenger Experience at [email protected].
