Our history
Our history
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower started in 2016 when Gatwick Airport asked: " How do we support people with non-obvious disabilities?"
May 2016
The Sunflower Lanyard Scheme® launches at London Gatwick Airport
The lanyard is designed to identify passengers with a hidden disability who may need additional help while travelling
2016-2018
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard rolls out across all major UK airports
2018
UK rail providers become members of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard Scheme®.
The Co-operative Channel Islands is the first UK supermarket chain to pilot the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard
Major UK supermarkets trials take place
NHS trusts and independent GP surgeries trial and launch the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard Scheme®
Work with international airports including sharing training materials and advising on best practices
2019
Tabbers Limited trademarks the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard Scheme®
Cinemas and visitor attractions launch the scheme throughout the UK
Supermarkets:
M&S is the first UK supermarket to roll out the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard in all their UK stores
Sainsbury's and Argos launch throughout their UK stores
Tesco launch in all of their stores in the UK and Ireland
Banks, hospitals, insurance companies, shopping centers, sports venues, and arenas join across the UK
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower online store opens up to the general public.
Facebook Page 25,000 likes within a few days - individuals and businesses from all over the world become aware and request the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard.
Two million Sunflower Lanyards are distributed.
Global airports launch the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower:
Sydney and Brisbane in Australia
Seattle and San Jose in the US
Copenhagen, Trieste and Amsterdam in Europe
Istanbul in Eurasia and Dubai in the Middle-East
2020
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower training videos are released for businesses and organisations to train their staff
Nationwide trials the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower becoming the first financial institution to join the scheme
Chelsea Football Club launch
Australia and New Zealand Launch