Avanti West Coast is the latest train operator to partner with the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Scheme. This allows customers with hidden disabilities to obtain lanyards, wristbands or wallet cards with a recognisable sunflower logo, which they can show to staff to let them know they may require some extra help, time or assistance while on board.
Since its launch in 2016, the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower has now been adopted globally by major airports and venues and in the UK, by many supermarkets, railway and coach stations, leisure facilities, the NHS, a number of police, fire and ambulance services, and an increasing number of small and large businesses and organisations.
The sunflower suggests happiness, positivity, strength as well as growth and confidence. It intends to allow everyone with Hidden Disabilities to choose to be visible when they need to be.
Teams at Avanti West Coast have been briefed on the scheme, which is entirely voluntary, and lanyards, cards and wristbands are available at Avanti West Coast stations.
Following announcements that face coverings must be worn on public transport in England and Scotland, some new products will also state whether the holder is exempt from these measures.
Brandon Peat, accessibility and inclusion manager at Avanti West Coast, said: “As more passengers start travelling again, we are striving to make the railway more inclusive. We are incredibly proud to be part of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Scheme, giving passengers with hidden disabilities greater confidence to travel on Avanti West Coast.”
