New scheme helps include people with hidden disabilities

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Scheme (HDSS), which promotes awareness and inclusion for those living with disabilities, was officially launched at the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit earlier this year.

David Loving-Molloy gave a presentation to officially launch the HDSS and outline his new role as leader and advisor for inclusiveness in the diocese. The launch was received positively, and the HDSS is to be introduced to parishes, schools and faith communities across the diocese

Wearing a Sunflower lanyard, pin or wristband in a Sunflower-friendly location signals that a person has a non-visible disability.

According to information about the scheme posted to the Central Catholic Facebook page recently, one in five people in Australia and New Zealand have a disability and roughly 85 per cent of these are non-visible. Hidden disabilities may include, but are not limited to: autism spectrum disorder; chronic pain; dementia; anxiety; low vision or hearing loss.

Wearing the Sunflower symbol can signal that a person may need assistance, support or simply a little more time. Sunflower-friendly organisations have trained their staff to recognise and support people wearing the Sunflower. It prompts understanding and support from staff and the community, without having to explain the condition.

The scheme is being introduced to Palmerston North Diocese “as a response to the synodal discernment”. A key insight from this discernment was the need for greater inclusivity within the faith community.

People were invited to learn about the scheme at the diocesan centre in Palmerston North on July 1. “If you are someone who experiences living with a disability, work, advocate or have a family member or friend experiencing disability, or are passionate about radical inclusion in our church, we’d love to have you join us,” the post stated.

The idea for the scheme came about in 2016 at Gatwick Airport in England. After an evaluation, a lanyard with sunflowers on a green background was chosen to reflect the idea of confidence, growth and strength, as well as introducing happiness and positivity. Thousands of organisations throughout the world have joined the scheme.

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Facebook (Central Catholic/Facebook)

Our history (Hidden Disabilities Sunflower)

Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Scheme launched at Cathedral (Tūmanako/Catholic Diocese of Palmerston North)

Diocesan Office restructure strengthening mission and inclusivity (Tūmanako/Catholic Diocese of Palmerston North)