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

Hidden Disabilities card, with the wording, 'I have hydrocephalus' and 'I get easily overwhelmed, can lose concentration and become confused and insecure in crowded situations. Please be patient with me and remain calm' designed by Tabbers Limited, part of Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Scheme, 2021

Hydrocephalus is a condition where there is a build up of cerebrospinal fluid on the brain. The effects can vary from person to person and can impact memory, concentrating and reasoning or physically. A person can be born with it or it can occur during someone's lifetime.

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.