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Bus operators jump aboard Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program

Operators across the country are now training drivers to recognise the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, bringing awareness to the unseen

Some disabilities, conditions or chronic illnesses are not immediately obvious to others. For some people, this can make it hard to understand and believe that someone, with a “non-visible” condition genuinely needs support.

Thats why operators Transit Systems and Busways have jumped aboard the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program, bringing awareness to the unseen.

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Hidden Disabilities Sunflower says that without a visual cue, it can be difficult for others to identify, acknowledge, or understand the daily barriers faced by people living with an invisible disability.

Since its launch in 2016, businesses from every sector have been joining the global Sunflower network (Image: Transit Systems)

Transit Systems Victoria managing director John Storms says 90 percent of the company’s Victorian drivers have now completed the training.

“Our drivers are providing accessibility in the community, and while some conditions are easy to see and help with, the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program encourages even more inclusivity, acceptance and understanding,” he says.

Image: Busways

“We are passionate about providing public transport that every person can, and wants to use, which is why we ran the training face to face during paid time, with updated customer service training.

“From better network connectivity, turn up and go services and more compassionate drivers, we are focused on raising the benchmark of public transport accessibility so that everyone can get onboard safely and more comfortably.

“We are part of Australia’s largest integrated multi-modal transport and tourism operator, which means we have a responsibility to ensure every body can get onboard and get to where they need to go.

“If you see a sunflower in the community, now, like our drivers, you too will know the importance of it.”

Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Aus/NZ director Justin Bruce says, “Living with a Hidden Disability can make daily life more demanding for many people, but it can be difficult for others to recognise, acknowledge or understand the challenges faced.

“Wearing the Sunflower icon, discreetly indicates to trained staff that the wearer has a hidden disability and may need additional help or simply more time.”

Busways is rolling out support for the program across its network in New South Wales and South Australia, with Busways Adelaide Outer South and NSW North Coast regions the first to kick off during Invisible Disabilities Week (20 – 26 October 2024). The initiative will be rolled out to other NSW regions in the coming weeks.

“Our teams are all undertaking the training to deliver Sunflower-friendly services in Busways regions to improve accessibility and inclusion on our services,” Busways customer experience manager Sarah Langthorne says.

“Our goal is to create a space where everyone can feel welcome, respected and understood, allowing those with hidden challenges to travel with ease and dignity, making a positive difference in daily lives.

“Over the coming months, we’ll continue to roll out the training and bring other Busways operated regions onboard to recognise and assist passengers wearing the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower.”

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