Hidden Disabilities card, with the wording 'I am autistic'

Hidden Disabilities card, with the wording 'I am autistic' and 'Please be patient with me, talk clearly and calmly and do not touch me to avoid causing me distress', designed by Tabbers Limited, part of Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Scheme, 2021

There are several types of autism which affects people in different ways and how they interact with others and the world around them. They may have difficulties interpreting people's words or tone of voice, or needing additional time to answer. They may also have difficultly in reading people's feelings and emotions. Routines and repetitive behaviours may help. Autistic people or people with autism may also be highly focused on interests and topics. This card reflects when a change happens to a routine, when a person may be over-sensitive to touch, sound, light or sound or if they are experiencing a shutdown or meltdown, when they become overwhelmed.

Launched at Gatwick airport in 2016, the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a symbol that people can choose to wear indicating that they may need additional assistance, space, or time. Partners in the scheme include supermarkets, travel hubs, and the NHS. The sunflower was chosen as a distinctive and easily recognisable sign. The Scheme’s website states “we chose a sunflower as it suggests happiness, positivity, strength as well as growth and confidence.” Wearing the sunflower symbol is an individual choice.