Sunflower lanyards help provide understanding and assistance to those living with dementia in Eastbourne

Several organisations in and around Eastbourne, including retailers, have already signed up. Wearing the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower discreetly indicates people may need additional support, help, or a little more time.

Since its launch in 2016, the scheme has been adopted globally by major airports and venues and, in the UK, by many supermarkets, railway and coach stations, leisure facilities, the NHS, police, fire and ambulance services and an increasing number of small and large businesses and organisations.

The charity has recently received a donation of £500 from Sussex Police. The money will help to pay for sunflower lanyards for locals living with dementia who wish to retain their independence when out and about but who may require a little extra support from retailers and other businesses. EDAA trustees, Stephen Lloyd and Jenny Eldridge, recently thanked police spokesperson Matt West for the contribution at an online presentation.

Matt West said: “Sussex Police are honoured to be able to put some funding towards this very important project. People living with dementia come into contact with the police in many ways so it is helpful to have a means of easily recognising that someone may require extra assistance. In the most serious cases where a person living with dementia has gone missing the wearing of a lanyard could aid the police to reunite them with their family or carers much sooner than would otherwise be possible.”

Julia Dunkeld, sales adviser at M&S Eastbourne, attended the presentation and said the store was pleased to be part of the scheme.