Hidden Disabilities card, with the wording 'I have Tourette's'

Hidden Disabilities card, with the wording, 'I have Tourette's' and 'I cannot control my tics. These can include loud noises, twitches or saying things I don't mean. Please don't be offended or afraid' designed by Tabbers Limited, part of Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Scheme, 2021

Tourette’s or Tourette syndrome is a long term neurological condition where people make involuntary sounds or movements, known as tics. It is estimated that around 300,000 people in the United Kingdom live with Tourette’s. It is named after the physician, Georges Gilles de la Tourette, who first described it in 1885.

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.