Airport joins Sunflower scheme to recognise hidden disabilities

The Sunflower scheme is recognised around the world

An initiative that raises awareness that a person has a hidden disability and may need extra support is being adopted at the Isle of Man Airport.

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower scheme uses lanyards, pins or wristbands to indicate a disability.

Airport director Gary Cobb said the scheme would help to create an "inclusive and supportive" environment.

The scheme is used by those with conditions such as hearing or sight impairments, dementia, or autism.

The globally-recognised scheme aims to create a welcoming atmosphere for individuals with hidden disabilities, and a campaign to tell staff and passengers about the scheme has now been launched.

'Non-visible disabilities'

Mr Cobb said: "By raising awareness and understanding, we hope to make the travel experience smoother and more enjoyable for everyone."

Passengers with any disability can also visit the airport to familiarise themselves before their their scheduled flight to "gain reassurance, confidence and insight into what their journey will look like", he said.

The adoption of the scheme by the airport follows a similar move by Isle of Man Transport in 2021.

Hidden Disabilities Sunflower chief executive Paul White said it was "fantastic" that airport has joined the network, which would "help identify customers with non-visible disabilities".

That meant passengers would be "offered the support they require when visiting", he added.

A limited number of Sunflower lanyards has been made available at the airport information desk.

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