Calgary, AB – Creating inclusive and accessible experiences for individuals of all ages and abilities is a priority of The Calgary Airport Authority (The Authority). As part of this commitment, The Authority is proud to welcome the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program to YYC Calgary International Airport (YYC).
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a globally recognized program that helps individuals with hidden disabilities discreetly identify themselves to those around them and indicate that they may need additional support, patience, or simply more time.
"We are thrilled to bring the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower to YYC," says Chris Miles, Vice President, Operations & Infrastructure for The Calgary Airport Authority. "Travelling can be a stressful experience for anyone, but for those with hidden disabilities, it can be particularly challenging. This program will help us provide a welcoming and inclusive airport experience for all of our guests."
“We are delighted to welcome Calgary International Airport (YYC) to the global Hidden Disabilities Sunflower network. It is important that passengers with non-visible disabilities feel supported during their journey, whether it is the beginning, middle or end of their travels. YYC have committed time and passion to implement the training to ensure that Sunflower wearers are recognised by their staff to receive the additional help, understanding and kindness they need,” says Paul White, CEO, Hidden Disabilities Sunflower.
Individuals can pick up their Sunflower items, including a lanyard, pin, and/or ID card, from Information on the Arrivals level, beside Door 9, or by requesting items a minimum of two weeks in advance using YYC’s Accessible Support Request Form. Wearing the Sunflower signals to those around them that the wearer may need extra support or understanding during their journey.
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program has been adopted by airports and other organizations around the world and has been praised for its ability to create inclusive environments for individuals with hidden disabilities.
For more information on the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower at YYC, please visit the Accessibility page on www.yyc.com.
ABOUT THE CALGARY AIRPORT AUTHORITY
The Calgary Airport Authority is a not-for-profit organization incorporated under the Regional Airports Authorities Act of Alberta and is responsible for the management, operation and development of YYC Calgary International Airport (YYC) and Springbank Airport (YBW). The Authority’s commitment to safety remains a top priority. Our airports are important economic generators for the city, region and province, supporting thousands of jobs and generating billions in GDP through associated economic activity. The Authority is also recognized as one of Alberta’s Top Employers for 2023.
ABOUT THE SUNFLOWER
- Wearing the Sunflower lanyard enables individuals to discreetly indicate that they have a non-visible disability and may need additional assistance, kindness, or simply a little more time.
- Since the Sunflower was established in the UK in 2016, it has been adopted globally by organisations to support their colleagues and customers. The Sunflower is recognised across a broad range of sectors - ranging from retail, financial services, transport including over 200 airports, travel and tourism, education as well as healthcare, emergency service and entertainment.
- The Sunflower is available globally and has been launched locally in Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Ireland, Latin America, the Netherlands, New Zealand, the UAE, the UK and the USA.
- The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is part of Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Scheme Limited, a private company based in the UK.
- For further information please visit hiddendisabilitiesstore.com
Media Relations
The Calgary Airport Authority
media@yyc.com
403 735 5899