Kaimahi (staff) and ākōnga (learners) with non-visible disabilities at Unitec and MIT now have more support following the launch of our membership to the Hidden Disability Sunflower programme.
Almost 150 kaimahi attended the virtual launch on Monday.
The Hidden Disability Sunflower programme originated in the United Kingdom and has now been adopted all over the world, including many locations throughout Aotearoa New Zealand.
While some disabilities are apparent, others have a disability, condition or chronic illness that may not be immediately obvious.
Our ākonga and kaimahi will be able to wear green sunflower lanyards that identify them as having such a ‘hidden disability’. It’s a simple visual tool to let people know that they might need extra help, understanding, or just more time.
White lanyards indicate that the person is an ‘ally’ and has taken training to help green lanyard wearers.
People are encouraged to wear the lanyards on-campus as well as in other public spaces.
It’s another way for both institutions to actively support our ākonga says Dr Simon Nash, DCE – Learner Experience and Success.
“When people choose to learn with us, they get wraparound support that they won’t get at every tertiary provider. This initiative is just another way we can be inclusive and provide support to all our learners,” he explains.
“We want as many kaimahi and ākonga to know about the initiative so they can be aware if someone they’re engaging with, has a hidden disability. If you see someone with a green lanyard, people are encouraged to be ready to help or just give them time to do what they’re doing.”
“These 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 chronic health conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, chronic pain or sleep disorders.”
Dr Nash acknowledged the Hidden Disabilities Working Group – Julie McGregor, Laura Harvey, Lele Talagi, Mirabel Sygrove, Mirabel Mowat Smith, Sabrina Sharma – for their mahi to launch this programme.
“They’re clearly passionate about it and have worked so well across MIT and Unitec to make it happen,” he says.
Kaimahi who wish to become sunflower allies can undertake online training to support their colleagues and ākonga with non-visible disabilities.
To become a supporter please refer to the information on Hidden Disabilities.