The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard scheme was first introduced in 2016 to discreetly indicate to people around the wearer that they may need additional support or help. Not all disabilities are visible – some are not immediately obvious, such as autism, chronic pain, dementia, anxiety, being blind and/or partially sighted, or deaf and hard of hearing. It can be difficult for people to identify, acknowledge or understand the challenges faced by someone with a hidden disability.
The Sunflower Lanyard is now globally recognised and used at major airports, venues, supermarkets, and within the NHS and emergency services.
The free-of-charge lanyards will be available from Anfield and the club's retail stores, including the pop-up store at Prenton Park for Liverpool FC Women home games.
An initiative of its Red Together programme, the Sunflower Lanyard supports the club's ambition to improve the experience of all its supporters and visitors.
Rishi Jain, senior ED&I manager at Liverpool FC, said: "As a club we are committed to making LFC the most inclusive football club on and off the pitch. The Hidden Disabilities campaign gained huge momentum and awareness during the pandemic, and we are proud to have implemented the Sunflower Lanyard across our club.
"We will have the logo on display at key touch points around our stadium and stores. For anyone in need of a lanyard, simply ask a member of staff where the sunflower logo is displayed. The lanyard also helps our staff identify those who may need additional support whilst on site and ensure that everyone has the best possible experience when they're engaging with LFC."
Ted Morris, secretary of the Liverpool Disabled Supporters Association, commented: "This is great news from LFC and this initiative will take us a step closer to becoming the most inclusive club in the Premier League. The Sunflower Lanyard Scheme will help so many of our disabled supporters who have hidden disabilities."
For more information on LFC's ED&I campaign, head to www.liverpoolfc.com/redtogether.