A local mum who works at Virgin Care has told how her employer is helping raise

awareness of hidden disabilities thanks to her inspirational eight-year-old.

Wellness Service Manager, Sarah Button, said her son James wears a Hidden Disabilities lanyard when out, as he has autism and this helps inform others.

Now, as part of World Alzheimer’s Month this September, colleagues and service users across Virgin Care in B&NES have been provided with the lanyards, which were distributed earlier this week.

Sarah said: “My eight-year-old son James has autism, and he uses a sunflower lanyard when we go out shopping, or out for the day.

“James’ strength inspires me every day, and seeing the benefits the scheme has had for him pushed me to apply for the Feel The Difference grant and get funding to introduce the wonderful scheme in our organisation.”

Virgin Care is supporting the scheme across its health and care services in B&NES, and has used its Feel The Difference grant to fund the initial purchase of 500 sunflower lanyards to distribute to staff and service users.

Sarah added: “People living with hidden disabilities face daily challenges that can be difficult for others to identify, acknowledge, or understand.

“By using funding from our Feel The Difference grant, we are able to create an inclusive environment where everyone is appreciated and respected.

“It’s important to us at Virgin Care that we support one another and challenging preconceived ideas around hidden disabilities that will promote positive change.”

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower was launched in 2016 as a way for others to recognise those with hidden disabilities. https://hiddendisabilitiesstore.com/about-hidden-

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