People have been urged to seek help at the airport if needed
People heading to the airport have been told that the Sunflower lanyard could help them feel less stressed(Image: Hinterhaus Productions via Getty Images)
Manchester Airport has issued a message to anyone wearing a sunflower lanyard.
Ahead of the busy summer travel season, officials note that people with hidden disabilities who prefer not to disclose their condition or use the airport’s assistance service can wear the lanyard. It discreetly signals that the person may need extra time, patience, or understanding while moving through the airport.
Manchester Airport explains: “The Sunflower lanyard now offers access to all lanes at departure security, in addition to our Family and Assisted Travel lane.
“All channels at departure security offer next-generation security screening, offering a quicker, quieter and more customer-friendly process for all passengers. Security colleagues have hidden disability awareness training and will assist you with any questions that you may have while passing through the security process.”
If you want to pick up a lanyard at Manchester, you can head to one of its Assistance Reception areas at Terminal 2 and Terminal 3 check-in halls on the day of travel.
It says: “We will be happy to provide you with a lanyard, even if you feel you don’t need or haven’t booked assisted travel in advance. If you have a Sunflower lanyard already, you can use it if you wish. We are sorry, lanyards cannot be posted to you ahead of travel.”
What is the sunflower lanyard?
According to Hidden Disabilities Sunflower: “Some disabilities, conditions or chronic illnesses are not immediately obvious to others. For some people, this can make it hard to understand and believe that someone, with a “non-visible” condition genuinely needs support.
“Some people question whether you have a disability because you don’t look ‘like you have a disability’.
“That is why we created the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower – to encourage inclusivity, acceptance and understanding. It is a simple tool for you to share that you have a hidden disability voluntarily.
“Simply by wearing the Sunflower, you’re just letting everyone know that you might need extra help, understanding, or just more time.”
The Sunflower has been launched in Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Denmark, Ireland, Latin America, the Netherlands, New Zealand, the UK, the UAE and the USA.
Find out where it is known near you using the Sunflower map.
