Staff from Transport for NSW (TfNSW) have undertaken special training to support people living with a hidden disability so they can navigate the State’s rail network with greater confidence.
Leader of ‘Sunflower Program’ at TfNSW, Clare Appleby said train travel could be challenging for many customers, including the estimated 138,000 people living with a hidden disability – such as autism, dementia, chronic pain or anxiety – who use the State’s rail network every day.
“As part of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, customers can get a free lanyard to wear while travelling, discreetly indicating they have a hidden disability and may require assistance,” Ms Appleby said.
“This is a simple way of helping station staff, train crew and other customers understand that someone wearing the green and yellow sunflower symbol might need a bit of additional care or patience, or even just a little extra time.”
She said the Sunflower lanyards were now available at 14 Sydney train stations and 20 stations on the intercity and regional train network.
Ms Appleby said TfNSW worked with Autism Spectrum Australia to develop training for staff to support them to help people with hidden disabilities use trains with greater comfort.
“Around 90 per cent of Sydney Trains and NSW TrainLink customer service staff have undertaken the training,” Ms Appleby said.
“Once completed, staff can wear a Sunflower pin.”
She said the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program was a global initiative across 39 countries, where staff were being trained in workplaces such as airports, supermarkets and emergency services.
Further information about TfNSW’s support for people living with a hidden disability can be accessed at this PS News link.
