NIDA is delighted to announce it has adopted the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower scheme to help support and raise awareness of those living with a hidden disability.
In Australia and New Zealand 1 in 5 people are said to have a disability, 80% of these are hidden. The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is about supporting people with a hidden disability and helping them attain the understanding, patience and assistance needed when going about their daily lives.
The Sunflower program exists to help those with disabilities that are not immediately obvious such as autism, chronic pain, dementia, anxiety, visual or hearing impairment. The aim is to help make the invisible, visible.
The lanyard or wristband bearing the sunflower logo can be worn by anyone wishing to make their disability visible to those around them as a subtle way of letting others know that they may require additional support, assistance or a bit more time.
NIDA Staff will then be able to help you with any support or adjustments you may need.
“The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program reflects NIDA’s core values of inclusion and belonging. We adopted this initiative to offer a discreet way for students and staff with non-visible disabilities to signal that they may need support or understanding. It’s a simple but powerful step toward fostering a more compassionate and accessible environment—one where everyone feels seen, supported, and able to thrive.” Kareena Hodgson- Senior Counsellor.
Students and staff may collect a Sunflower lanyard or pin from NIDA’s Student Services department (located on the ground floor) and for more information on the initiative visit www.hiddendisabilitiesshop.com.au