Growing Inclusivity Through the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Scheme
As part of its work to foster inclusivity, acceptance and understanding, Paradigm Trust is rolling out the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower scheme across its schools.
Not all disabilities, conditions or chronic illnesses are always seen. For people living with these non-visible conditions, the absence of obvious symptoms can sometimes lead to misunderstanding, scepticism or even a lack of belief in their need for support. This initiative is set up to support these people, with a simple yet effective tool to quickly and subtly communicate their needs, so they can be treated with respect, empathy, and inclusivity.
The Challenge of non-visible disabilities
For many people, living with a non-visible disability can be a double burden: managing the condition itself while also facing a world that often fails to recognise their challenges. These hidden conditions — such as autism, ADHD, anxiety disorders, chronic pain, migraines, hearing loss, or diabetes—don’t always have external markers, which can lead to judgement or insensitivity. For instance, students who need extra time or support in class may face questions or disbelief, simply because they don’t “look disabled.”
However the initiative isn’t solely about pupils – staff and parents are also encouraged to take part in the scheme.
What Is the Hidden Disabilities sunflower?
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower scheme was created to provide a recognisable yet discreet way for individuals with non-visible disabilities to communicate that they may need additional help, patience, or understanding. It is a movement aimed at transforming societal perceptions of disability. Since its launch in 2016, the initiative has spread globally, helping organisations and communities from education to transport and tourism adopt inclusive practices.
How it works
By wearing the sunflower logo on something such as a lanyard, badge, wristband, students with hidden disabilities can signal to peers, teachers and other staff that they may need accommodations or support. These items have the additional benefit that they can easily be put on or removed, making it easy to either wear all the time, or just when they feel they need to.
This creates a more inclusive environment by promoting awareness and equipping staff with the knowledge and training needed to better support students with non-visible disabilities. It ensures that every child, regardless of their challenges, feels seen and understood.
Spreading awareness of the sunflower
To ensure the scheme is effective it is important that everyone is aware of the sunflower’s significance.
Initially everyone who is employed at the school is briefed on what the initiative means, the purpose, the thinking behind it and the benefits it will bring. This extends beyond the teaching staff to everyone who works at the school such as administrators, cleaning staff, midday supervisors and contractors. Training is also given to help staff recognise and respond appropriately to the sunflower symbol. This includes understanding different non-visible conditions, practising empathy and tailoring support to individual needs.
The purpose of the sunflower is then explained to pupils in whole school assemblies, Parents and carers are made aware that Paradigm Trust is participating in the Hidden Sunflower scheme via the school newsletters, and other contact points such as coffee mornings, parent consultations and academy council meetings.
To ensure the initiative remains front of mind, reminders are made over following weeks and months in classes, base groups, year groups gatherings and other ways. Using tactics such as spotlighting a different hidden disability every week keeps the subject fresh, and also increases knowledge of the subject.
The sunflower scheme is integrated into the broader inclusion efforts which already exist in the schools, encouraging kindness and understanding among all students. Peer education is an essential part of this, fostering a culture where differences are embraced.
Building a sunnier future
By using the scheme in schools, the Trust is able to positively affect the wider community too. Families who might not fully understand the significance of the sunflower will become familiar with the initiative and start wearing the symbol in places other than school, becoming advocates and spreading understanding amongst their contacts. It reinforces the message that inclusivity is not confined to the classroom—it’s a societal value.
The Trust is always working to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and supported. Using the sunflower supports this, offering those with non-visible disabilities a sense of belonging and validation, and fostering empathy and understanding amongst the community as a whole.