Today marks the International day when we celebrate and raise awareness of people with disabilities. The theme this year is ‘Not all Disabilities are Visible’ and focuses on spreading awareness and understanding that not all disabilities are immediately apparent, such as mental illness, chronic pain or fatigue, sight or hearing impairments, diabetes, brain injuries, neurological disorders, learning differences and cognitive dysfunctions.
Guernsey introduced the hidden disability lanyard scheme to support those with hidden disabilities when they are travelling, and this scheme continues to be rolled out across other areas of island life. The sunflower lanyards can be worn by those with a hidden disability to indicate they might need extra support.
Just a little understanding about different disabilities can make all the difference to being able help others where necessary. This has been particularly difficult for many people as a result of the pandemic. Even though life in Guernsey is essentially back to normal, many people still face challenges due to lack of understanding about their disability and the barriers they face.
Gill Evans, Guernsey’s Disability Officer, said: “By taking the time to learn a little about different impairments, we can better understand the barriers that some people face in daily life. For example, some people may find loud and busy environments difficult, others may find that information provided in a small print is difficult to read. It is often the small changes that can make a big difference to people’s lives. We just need to understand what changes might be helpful in order to include everyone equally.”
Training about hidden disabilities has been delivered to some teams who regularly encounter members of the public. The Ports Welcome Team come into contact with travellers with many different impairments and conditions who need varying support.
Isabel de Menezes, the Visitor Survey & Cruise Pier Manager, said: “The Ports Welcome Team are trained to ensure that anyone with a hidden disability can move through the processes at the Ports as efficiently and swiftly as possible. The team members do understand that not everyone likes to wear the ‘sunflower’ lanyard or other visual sign as a means of identification. As an alternative, just a quiet word with one of the Welcome Team will ensure that any additional support can be made available. The Welcome Team are easily identified at the Port arrivals by their bright orange hi-viz vest.”
More information about hidden disabilities is provided in the online States disability awareness training which is available free of charge at Signpost.
