What to do if you see someone wearing a sunflower lanyard

Security measures at airports are very strict. But those who work in these establishments generally know the bureaucratic procedures and know what can be done to make life easier for passengers with special needs, such as people with health problems and elderly people with limited mobility. In this sense, a story shows that, with simple measures and common sense, it is possible to help these people in busy environments that generate tension and nervousness, as is the case at airports.

O awesome.club shows this case, which made the lives of people who need support a little more peaceful. Follow!

“Help for Hidden Disabilities”

Kim Baker went on vacation with her family to Spain in June of last year. Little of her has autism. So she decided to carry a quirky symbol to let staff know about her son’s special needs. Kim wore a green badge lanyard with sunflower prints. Something simple, but that makes a huge difference.

This decision, shared on her Facebook profile, made the trip much smoother. At Malaga airport, a security guard noticed the cord and soon escorted them to a place where they were given special attention so they didn’t have to go through routine security processes. For children who have autism, getting in line can be upsetting or even impossible. They may have a meltdown because they feel overwhelmed; therefore, this initiative allows them to receive help for a much smoother trip.

“Please offer me a seat. Remember that not all impairments and conditions are visible.”

This might sound like (and indeed is) an amazing idea. But this is not something new, as Kim herself recalled. The creators were the employees of Gatwick airport, in London, who, in 2016, transformed this accessory into a symbol of support for people with hidden disabilities, such as autism, Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), disorders linked to, dementia, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, as well as those who suffer from extreme phobias linked to flying.

The initiative was not just about using the accessory as a warning sign for the support teams. Some airports (such as Manchester) have sensory rooms for people with hidden disabilities. There, they can feel safe and find a bit of tranquility amidst the turmoil caused outside by the movement of passengers and airline employees. These are measures that have served as an example for other airports, which seek to give their users a more humane treatment.

In view of the enormous success, the cord was also adopted in other types of establishments, such as supermarkets and railway stations. The objective is always to alert employees about possible special needs of some customers. Kim guarantees that people with these conditions are not looking for any privilege, but just a little understanding and empathy. Using the string is a great start to showing these small differences.

In order to support parents and families of people with disabilities, the lanyards are now offered on the Hidden Disabilities Store website. In it, it is possible to obtain information about the initiative, share experiences and, of course, purchase the accessory. The response from airline industry officials was very positive and passengers found them to be of fundamental support.

What would you add to this initiative? How, in your opinion, is it possible to improve the treatment given to people with disabilities in airports, shops, banks and public offices? Leave your opinion in the comments!