We've joined Hidden Disabilities Sunflower

SMHS is committed to creating an inclusive, person-centred environment for everyone.

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is more than a symbol - it reflects our commitment to ensuring that patients, families and carers who may need extra time, flexibility or understanding feel seen, respected and supported.

As proud members of the global Hidden Disabilities Sunflower network, we are strengthening our commitment to creating an environment where everyone feels welcome, supported and understood.

Supporting our community

The Sunflower empowers individuals with non-visible disabilities, conditions, or chronic illnesses by giving them a discreet way to let others know that they may need a little extra help, patience, space or time. There’s nothing to explain, just wear your Sunflower, and our team is ready to offer support however you need it.

Our staff are trained to recognise the Sunflower, be aware of the wide range of non-visible disabilities and know how important it is to offer the right support, whether that means a little more understanding, a bit more space, or just a friendly smile. Support may include:

  • Staff ready to ask, “How can I help?”
  • Extra time to process information or make decisions
  • Access to quieter or low-sensory areas, where available
  • Welcoming and assisting support persons or service animals
  • Adapted communication methods and step-by-step guidance to suit your needs
  • Friendly judgment-free assistance, every time

Our commitment to inclusion

We believe in providing an environment where everyone can feel at ease and supported. The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower membership helps us go even further in making accessibility and inclusion a natural part of everyday life here.

  • For our consumers: You’ll get a more supportive, understanding experience whenever you’re with us
  • For our colleagues: It strengthens our inclusive culture, giving everyone the tools to support and champion each other

Jeremy's Story

Jeremy is 28 years old. He lives with congenital cerebral palsy, autism, and moderate hearing loss - conditions that aren’t immediately visible to others. During hospital visits, Jeremy often needs extra time, flexibility, and understanding. His mother, who is his Legal Guardian and full-time carer, frequently interprets for him, yet her voice is sometimes overlooked in clinical settings.

Jeremy’s message to us is simple but powerful: “Please don’t judge a book by its cover.”

This is why Peel Health Campus has introduced two important initiatives that are already well-established across other SMHS sites:

• Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program
• Disability Health Profile Form

These tools are now live at PHC and are designed to make care more inclusive and person-centred for patients and carers with non-visible disabilities.

Together, we’re building a health service where every person feels seen, heard, and respected.

📸 Featuring Jeremy, with thanks to him and his family for sharing their story.