Texthelp shines a light on Hidden Disabilities with the Sunflower
ANTRIM, UK - March 24, 2024 - Texthelp proudly announces the launch of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower led by Enable
Driven by Texthelp's Disability Employee Resource Group (ERG), Enable, this initiative allows us to make the invisible visible, empowering employees and candidates to receive the support they need.
With a team of over 375 employees spanning across the UK, US, Australia, Norway, Sweden, and Denmark, the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower will positively impact all staff. Individuals who have a hidden disability, such as a neurodivergent condition, will be able to discreetly communicate their needs in the workplace, while others can champion team allyship.
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower in action:
Employees have the choice to wear a green Sunflower lanyard or add a green Sunflower badge to their email signatures to subtly signal their hidden disability. Those without a disability can also show their allyship by wearing a white “I Support Sunflower” lanyard or badge, creating a visible network of support within the Texthelp community.
This initiative empowers individuals like Alison, a Hidden Disability Sunflower user, who shares her experience: "I need to lip-read people to understand what is being said. I wear my Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyard at work to remind people that I am Deaf/have a hidden disability as my speech is quite good, so people can forget that I find it difficult to communicate if they look away from me."
Texthelp’s participation in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower extends beyond physical representation as allies are encouraged to include the Sunflower background in remote meetings, further reinforcing a culture of inclusivity and support.
Ryan Graham, Chief Technology Officer at Texthelp and Executive Sponsor of Enable, underscores the company's dedication to fostering a welcoming environment: "Inclusion and diversity are at the core of what we do. The adoption of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower aligns with our wider mission to create environments where every individual feels valued and supported - without the need to formally disclose a disability."
In addition to the Sunflower, Texthelp's Enable ERG is building on their inclusion efforts with specialist training and education for all employees. This includes resources for ensuring inclusive in-person and remote meetings, presentations, and team communication.
This comprehensive approach ensures that Texthelp remains at the forefront of inclusive workplace practices, fostering a continuous culture of improvement where every individual can bring their whole selves to work.
You can find out more and download your own Sunflower badge at the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower website.
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