Sunflower lanyards
Accessibility and support
Sunflower lanyards are for everyone with a hidden disability. Hidden disabilities or conditions might not be visible at first.
Our lanyards are a way to let us know that you might need some extra help, understanding or more time in our hospitals and community spaces.
You do not need to show medical proof, a diagnosis card, or proof of disability to receive one. People waiting for a diagnosis or experiencing chronic conditions, mental health struggles, autism, or neurodivergence are welcome to wear one.
How to get a sunflower lanyard
You can collect a lanyard from:
- the main receptions of our hospitals
- Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) offices
- Knowledge and Information Centre at St Thomas' Hospital (ground floor, North Wing)
Your lanyard is yours to keep and you are welcome to wear it every time you are being cared for by us.
Ordering in advance
If you'd prefer to order a sunflower or wristband before going to the hospital, rather than collecting one when you arrive, you can purchase one from the hidden disabilities store.
Parents or carers
If you're a parent or carer of a child with a hidden disability or additional needs, size-appropriate silicone wrist bands are available in addition to the lanyards.
About hidden disabilities
A hidden disability can be difficult for others to recognise or understand but can make daily life more challenging for those who have one. A hidden disability can include:
- sensory loss, including difficulty seeing or hearing
- a physical disability that may not be obvious
- autism
- a learning disability
- dementia, including Alzheimer's disease
- anxiety or any other mental health condition
Support when you wear a sunflower lanyard
When you wear a lanyard, it lets our staff know that you might need extra support. They might ask you if there's anything we can do to help you.
A sunflower lanyard should help with:
- asking for extra support (although you do not need to be wearing a lanyard to ask for this)
- our staff knowing they can approach you and ask if there is anything you need help with
- letting us know if you need help getting to your appointment, such as assistance from a porter, once you get to the hospital
Recording your needs in writing
You can also complete the card that comes with the lanyard if you're unable to talk to one of our staff or find it difficult. Writing down the type of help you'll need and handing it to our staff helps us to support you.
To record your needs on your electronic health record, please also read our information about reasonable adjustments.
Language and communication support
If you need any communication support when you visit, such as a language interpreter, please tell your service in advance of your appointment. You can find their contact details on your appointment letter.