Extra help for hidden disabilities at Barts
Staff at St Bartholomew’s Hospital came together last month to learn more about how to support patients with hidden disabilities, in a dedicated session marking the launch of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Scheme at the site.
Held in the West Wing Conference Room, the event welcomed a small group of people with learning disabilities from Ilford, who shared their experiences of navigating healthcare settings. The aim was to help frontline staff better understand the challenges some patients face – and to equip them with the tools and confidence to offer support in a respectful and meaningful way.
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Scheme is a simple but powerful initiative. By wearing a sunflower lanyard, patients can discreetly signal that they have a condition – such as autism, chronic pain, or mental health difficulties – that may not be immediately visible but for which they might need extra help.
The event was led by senior nurse Harvey Tortusa and Reeny Mariampillai, clinical nurse specialist for learning disabilities. Together, they are championing improved care for people with learning disabilities and working to ensure staff feel confident and supported in potentially sensitive situations.
During the session, staff explored practical ways to use the lanyard as a prompt to offer help. This could include giving someone more time to understand information, offering directions or a porter to help them find their appointment, or simply asking if there's anything they can do to make the patient feel more at ease.
Each lanyard comes with a card that wearers can personalise to explain the type of support they may need. Patients are encouraged to keep their lanyard and wear it whenever they’re in our care.
The team plans to continue working closely with the Ilford-based group to strengthen the relationship and ensure the voices of people with learning disabilities shape future improvements at St Bartholomew’s.
Harvey said: "Hearing directly from patients with learning disabilities gave us invaluable insight. Their honesty and suggestions reminded us that meaningful engagement is not just beneficial - it is essential to delivering compassionate, tailored care."
This initiative is part of our broader commitment to inclusive care – and a reminder that small actions, like recognising a lanyard, can make a big difference to someone’s healthcare experience.
Read more