Hidden disabilities

At Heathrow we understand all passengers are unique and we offer different levels of support tailored to your needs

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Hidden disabilities

For a hidden disability such as autism, dementia or anxiety, help is always at hand at the airport. If you would like to book assistance just let your airline know 48 hours in advance and our specially-trained staff will take care of you.

See airline contacts

Sunflower lanyards

Wearing a sunflower lanyard at Heathrow enables our colleagues to recognise that you have a hidden disability without you needing to declare it. This allows you to travel independently through the airport whilst knowing that if you need any additional support during your journey, any of our colleagues will be able to support.

How to request a lanyard

You can pick up a lanyard from all terminals Assistance desks at Heathrow.

The locations are before security:

  • Terminal 2: Level 5, check in hall, behind check in Zone C
  • Terminal 3: Level 1, opposite Pret a Manger
  • Terminal 4: Level 3, check in hall, opposite Zone B
  • Terminal 5: Level3, check in hall, Zone G
     

Contact us if you have any queries regarding the Sunflower Lanyard.

What is the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower?

Sensory Objects pack

We appreciate airports can be overwhelming spaces with many sensory triggers. To support our passengers with non-visible disabilities, Heathrow is currently testing a sensory objects pack in Terminal 2. The pack includes; a fidget toy, key ring with mobility and feelings cards. The cards are designed to help communicate with our Heathrow colleagues. The pack is free and can be requested at one of the following locations:

  • Terminal 2 assistance desk: level 5, check-in hall, behind check-in Zone A
  • Family assistance lane: before security, to the left of the ticket gates
  • Passport control: Look out for one of our Heathrow Helpers wearing pink.

If you use one of our packs, we would appreciate your feedback so we can improve them to suit your needs.  Please note we will not ask for your personal details

Provide feedback on our sensory objects pack

Sensory pack

If you have any further questions about the lanyard please do not hesitate to get in touch with us by email at special_assistance@heathrow.com.

Please note: Heathrow is not the only airport offering the sunflower lanyard scheme, so if you're flying from other UK airports please contact their customer service team directly or via their websites. They will be able to provide you with information on their current services and a lanyard, if available.