‘Just because you can’t see it, doesn’t mean it’s not there’ is the motto of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program.
And after going through the program’s hidden disability awareness training, it’s now a motto adopted by drivers at West Footscray bus company Transit Systems Victoria too.
“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,” said Transit System Victoria managing director John Storms of the importance of the training which 90 per cent of his drivers had now completed.
As part of the training, drivers were given information about how more than 4.4 million Australians live with a disability, with 80 to 85 per cent of these hidden or invisible.
The training also identified that more than 63 per cent of people avoided travel due to concerns about their needs not being met.
To address this, the drivers were taught skills to better support passengers who may need a little extra assistance or understanding, as well as being able to identify them in the first place.
“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,” said director of Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Aus/NZ, Justin Bruce.
“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.”
The sunflower was chosen as the symbol of hidden disabilities because it is considered discreet, yet distinctive, joyful and dynamic.
Mr Storms said training to better identify and help passengers with hidden disabilities was part of the company’s efforts to provide the best bus service possible.
“We are passionate about providing public transport that every person can, and wants to use,” he said.
“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.”
Cade Lucas
