The South-East Queensland Transit Association (SEQTA) is calling on Translink to support users with hidden disabilities by incorporating the sunflower symbol into their systems.
The #SeeTheSunflower campaign aims to educate Translink employees and the public about the meaning of the symbol, so they can assist users who may have trouble communicating their needs.
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower emerged from an initiative at London Gatwick Airport in 2016 and since then, has become a globally recognised symbol for people to voluntarily identify that they have a hidden disability.
Hidden disabilities can be temporary, situational or permanent. They can be neurological, cognitive and neurodevelopmental as well as physical, visual, auditory and include sensory and processing difficulties. They can also be respiratory as well as chronic health conditions such as arthritis and diabetes, chronic pain and sleep disorders.
According to Hidden Disabilities, the group that founded the initiative, 1 in 6 people globally live with a hidden disability – approximately 1.3 billion people.
People who live with hidden disabilities may choose to wear the sunflower symbol via a lanyard to voluntarily show they may need more assistance using essential services in daily life.
In a statement published to Instagram, Imogen B., Lead Director of SEQTA, said: “So many users of our state’s public transport system are disabled and in some cases, these are visible disabilities. Whether they’re using a wheelchair, a walking stick or something else. But for many people – it isn’t so visible.”
“Many South-East Queensland schools, facilities and more recognise this symbol! But Translink does not.”
“Translink avoiding the use of the symbol means lack of promotional material which leads to many issues such as:
– Drivers are not aware of this symbol and are unable to provide extra assistance
– The general public are not educated on this symbol and have no idea what it is
– Many disabled people are left unable to communicate their needs.”
“We are calling on @translinkqld to #SeeTheSunflower and for the Queensland Government to incorporate the symbol into all their public services to make a system that is accessible to everyone. No matter their needs, limitations and communication level.”
More information about the sunflower symbol and it’s history can be found here.
You can add your voice to the campaign to Translink here.
