Otago Polytechnic is adopting an initiative designed to discreetly show that some people may need extra understanding, time and support.
The globally recognised Hidden Disabilities Sunflower programme aims to raise awareness of "invisible" disabilities and foster a more inclusive environment for both students and staff.
The Sunflower programme allows people to wear a sunflower lanyard, badge or wristband to subtly indicate they need extra consideration.
Green-branded items signal that the wearer would like extra support or consideration, while white-branded items show the wearer has completed training on the Sunflower programme and is demonstrating their awareness and willingness to help.
The initiative was proposed to the polytechnic by occupational therapy student Lemon Hay, who was diagnosed with autism.
They suggested that the polytechnic could adopt the programme after noticing the lanyards on public transport in Melbourne.
The Sunflower lanyard or wristband removed the "added obstacle" of having to tell everyone about their condition, instead instantly communicating their needs.
"It just shows people instantly that they need to take a little bit more time when talking to me or I might not come across as neurotypical as everyone else."
One of the benefits of the lanyards or wristbands was the ability for individuals to decide when they put them on.
"It is a personal choice.
"If I am at a conference with a lot of different people and meeting a lot of different people, having that lanyard will allow people who can recognise it to know that they might need to just slow down a little bit for me so I can keep up."
Otago Polytechnic student success team health promotion navigator Stacey Harris said the programme was about providing understanding for challenges that might not be immediately apparent.
People would never be asked to explain why they were wearing the Sunflower logo, ensuring their privacy and control, she said.
