Sunflower lanyards ensuring a smooth journey for thousands

London North Eastern Railway (LNER) has helped thousands of customers enjoy smoother journeys since it became the first UK train company to introduce Sunflower Lanyards.

In the scheme’s first year, LNER has handed out more than 10,000 Sunflower Lanyards, as part of the ever-growing scheme that allows customers with hidden disabilities to let staff know discreetly that they might need some extra help.

LNER has also trained more than 50 colleagues to be Sunflower Ambassadors along the 936-mile East Coast route, who are able to help customers with hidden disabilities such as autism, dementia or a visual impairment.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The scheme has now been adopted by almost all other trains companies in the UK, having introduced the bright green, sunflower print lanyards and assistance cards at their stations.

The scheme, which successfully operates in major airports and supermarkets, has been endorsed by hidden disability charities.

It’s estimated one in five people in the UK have a disability, 70 per cent of which are hidden disabilities.

Claire Ansley, LNER’s Customer Experience Director said: “We’re delighted that there has been so much support for the Sunflower Lanyard scheme. We hope we can continue making journeys more comfortable for many more customers and wish to develop the scheme further to enhance their experience.”

Comment Guidelines

National World encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.