MiWay joins global accessibility program supporting those with non-visible disabilities and championing inclusivity

MiWay has joined the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program and is the first municipal transit provider in Canada to become a member, signalling a significant leap forward in supporting riders with invisible disabilities.

The program, which kicks off this fall, empowers MiWay customers with invisible disabilities to wear a Sunflower lanyard, which discreetly informs transit staff that they need more support, help, patience, or time. The program aims to support and improve the travel experience of riders with hidden disabilities, making it smooth, seamless and respectful. The program encourages a compassionate and patient approach to helping everyone who needs help.

“More than a quarter of our population lives with a disability. As a City, it’s our responsibility to ensure that our community is accessible and inclusive – one that provides equal access to all services, programs and facilities, regardless of ability. MiWay’s Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program truly embodies this, particularly for those with invisible disabilities. We are dedicated to working alongside our allies on the Accessibility Advisory Committee to leverage their expertise in addressing the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities. I extend my appreciation to everyone involved in bringing this initiative to life for our transit riders,” said Mayor Carolyn Parrish.

Sunflower program lanyards are available at the City Centre Transit Terminal Information Booth or via email request at miwayhelps@mississauga.ca.

The importance behind the program

In Mississauga, more than 201,000 people live with a disability, and the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program highlights that 80 per cent of these disabilities are not visible to others. The program acknowledges various hidden conditions, including Attention Deficient and Hyperactivity Disorder, autism, dementia, hearing loss, low vision, anxiety, and epilepsy.

Training for MiWay employees

To fully support the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program, MiWay is undertaking extensive training to ensure all staff can recognize and respond to customers participating in the program.

“MiWay aims to make transit accessible and welcoming for everyone by breaking down barriers. As a member of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program, we’re ensuring that every rider can navigate our transit system and use our services safely and confidently. As one of Canada’s largest transit agencies, we are proud to be a part of this program that creates a better experience for all transit riders that is safe, accessible, convenient and easy for. Awareness is key. Our goal is to support those riding transit who will benefit from a helping hand, more patience and understanding. MiWay staff have been trained to recognize and acknowledge the Sunflower lanyard and ask, ‘How can I help?” said Eve Wiggins, Director, MiWay.

MiWay’s commitment to reducing transit barriers speaks to its target of enhancing the customer experience by making travel in Mississauga safer, more accessible, convenient and inclusive. MiWay employees recognize the Sunflower logo and show support by:

• Asking if you can help
• Be kind
• Do not judge
• Have patience
• Listen closely
• Offer to kneel the bus and lower the ramp
• Show respect
• Show sensitivity

As one of Canada’s largest transit systems, MiWay is transforming Mississauga and taking a lead role in shaping the future of our community by using transit to provide mobility and open potential, in a socially equitable way.

About the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program is an internationally recognized symbol for persons with non-visible disabilities, launched in 2016 by Gatwick Airport. Hidden Disabilities Sunflower was established in the UK in 2016 and it has been adopted globally by businesses and charities to support their colleagues and customers.

The Sunflower represents happiness, positivity, strength, growth, and confidence.

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program is recognized across a broad range of sectors – ranging from retail, financial services, transport including more than 200 airports, travel and tourism, education, government, as well as healthcare, emergency service and entertainment.

The program has grown in Canada to include Toronto Pearson Airport, Air Canada and Metrolinx.

For more information about the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program and MiWay, visit the MiWay website. For further information about the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program, please visit hdsunflower.com.

Tags

• MiWay and Transit
• Transportation