Hidden Disabilities card, with the wording 'I have aphasia'

Hidden Disabilities card, with the wording 'I have aphasia' and 'Please speak slowly and clearly, and give me time to find the words. It can be hard for me to speak, read or write', designed by Tabbers Limited, part of Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Scheme, 2021

People who have aphasia find communication difficult including reading, writing, listening and speaking. It is caused when the parts of the brain responsible for langauge are affected including a stroke or a severe head injury.

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.