Hidden disabilities scheme backed by Lewes councillors

At a full council meeting on Thursday (September 17), Lewes councillors unanimously backed a motion to formally recognise the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower scheme in its day-to-day business. 

The scheme sees those with hidden disabilities – such as learning disabilities and chronic illnesses – able to wear a sunflower lanyard, badge or button, as an outward sign that they may need additional support or understanding. 

The motion to back the scheme was put forward by Cllr Sean MacLeod (Lib Dem), the council’s mental health champion, who argued it had grown further in relevance since the coronavirus pandemic. 

Cllr MacLeod said: “Without physical evidence of the hidden disability it is frequently difficult for others to acknowledge the challenges faced and as a consequence sympathy and understanding can often be in short supply.

“We live in a strange new world and for a number of years to come our way of life will be different to what it was six months ago.

“We feel that by recognising the symbol and promoting what it means we can make life easier for those who might otherwise struggle in the years ahead.”

The motion received unanimous support from council members, with several councillors speaking in support of the scheme.

They included Cllr Liz Boorman (Con), who said: “I totally agree that this is a worthy notice of motion, I have a daughter who has special needs who uses the sunflower lanyard. 

“Most places are very supportive of it, but there are still retail units and organisations which do need more information and support to recognise this.

“I welcome anything the council can do to support vulnerable people in our constituency.” 

As a result of the motion, the council is to actively promote awareness of the scheme. It will also promote that the council’s offices are hidden disability friendly, placing the sunflower symbol on its buildings.

The scheme itself was launched at Gatwick Airport  in 2016, as a symbol to help staff identify those who may need additional support. 

The council will also encourage East Sussex County Council and town and parish councils to adopt the scheme as well. This was an amendment to the original motion.

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