Construction materials supplier Aggregate Industries has signed up to the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Scheme, in a bid to provide better assistance to staff and customers in need of additional support.
Launched in 2016, the scheme includes lanyards bearing a distinctive Sunflower symbol that indicates the wearer may require additional support or assistance.
The initiative aims to assist people with disabilities that may not be obvious – such as autistic spectrum condition, dementia, visual impairments, or hearing loss.
The newly established Aggregate Industries Disability Affinity Network (AIDA) – a dedicated committee passionate about improving access and inclusivity for staff and customers with disabilities – is taking the lead on the scheme.
Aggregate Industries says it has already created UK-branded Sunflower lanyards, as well as face-mask exemption badges.
‘More inclusive working environments’
James Roberts, Human Resources director at Aggregate Industries UK, said: “As an organisation that’s committed to building a more inclusive workforce and working environments, we’re incredibly proud to back the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Scheme – rolling it out across our sites nationwide.
“The scheme is excellent and is just one of the ways our newly created Aggregate Industries Disability Affinity Network will be working to provide extra support and access for colleagues and customers with non-obvious conditions that may require extra support.”
AIDA is part of Aggregate Industries’ wider Affinity Networks programme, aimed at championing equality, diversity, and inclusion within the organisation.
The Affinity Network currently consist of four internal groups focused on disability, LGBTQ+, women in construction and BAME.
The network is set to expand further in the future.
Image: Halfpoint/Shutterstock
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