British Dressage joins Hidden Disabilities Sunflower network

British Dressage announces the launch of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower across the sport, as part of the ongoing effort to ensure that dressage offers an inclusive and welcoming environment for everybody to enjoy affiliated training and competition.   

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is an easy way for individuals to voluntarily share that they have a disability or condition that may not be immediately apparent – and that they may need a helping hand, understanding, or more time in shops, at work, on transport, or in public spaces.  

The Sunflower can be displayed in a number of different forms, depending on the preference of the user, including as a lanyard, lapel badge, face mask or ID card.  For use in British Dressage affiliated competition or training activity, the Sunflower can be displayed via a competitor armband, which is now available from the BD shop. Displaying the Sunflower will help British Dressage offer better support to its members, officials and supporters involved in the sport. 

This month, in addition to announcing the Sunflower launch, BD have sourced a pilot venue to work towards creating an ideal case study for all other affiliated venues to follow. Gloucestershire-located Hartpury University and College, under the leadership of Phillip Cheetham, have committed to providing quiet space for competitors at every competition, as well as promoting an improved site plan to support navigation. The team at Hartpury will also provide posters and lanyards to promote the Sunflower, as well as providing access to sensory information via their website.  

British Dressage members can visit a dedicated page on our website to learn more about the Sunflower and find dedicated resources to offer support and education. 

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Jason Brautigam, British Dressage CEO, commented: “As a National Governing Body for dressage we are committed to improving accessibility to the sport, so we’re proud to make the next step in raising awareness and providing opportunities for those with hidden disabilities.  Recognising the Sunflower will make dressage more inclusive for all, improving competition and training for those with a non-visible disability or condition.” 

Paul White, CEO, Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, added: “We are delighted that British Dressage has adopted the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower to provide support and confidence to its members and supporters with invisible disabilities. The sport offers so many health benefits, and taking this important step will empower Sunflower wearers to feel included, knowing that they will be offered help and support if required.” 

Learn more about the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower by visiting their website: hdsunflower.com