By Aston Villa FC

Aston Villa is proud to support the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Scheme.

As part of the club’s All In commitment to make Villa Park an inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone, the scheme will launch when we welcome the return of supporters for Sunday’s Premier League fixture against Chelsea.

Not every disability is visible, the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower will let us know that you may need some additional support.

It is a discreet sign to indicate to people around you, including staff, colleagues, stewards and health professionals, that you have an invisible disability and may require some support, help or a little more time.

Supporters or their personal assistants can choose to wear a branded AVFC Sunflower lanyard to help matchday staff become aware of invisible disabilities such as sight or hearing loss, dementia, autism or anxiety.

Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Scheme

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower will be in operation at Villa Park as we strive to make everyone feel independent and secure while in and around the stadium, knowing you can find help and support should you need it.

Chairwoman of the Aston Villa Disabled Supporters’ Association Joanne McKibbens said: “I am fully behind the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Scheme.

“In my opinion, this is a great way to offer awareness of an invisible disability which will provide additional support and assistance from staff and police in and around the ground.”

Paul White CEO Hidden Disabilities Sunflower said “Football matches are a great day out, but stadiums can be overwhelming with large crowds and noise.

"We are delighted that Aston Villa’s staff have taken our training and will offer kindness, understanding and patience to visiting Sunflower wearers.”

Any supporter who would like to use the scheme and obtain a Sunflower lanyard, free of charge, should email accessibility@avfc.co.uk or contact our Disability Access Officer on 0121 326 1518.

For more information on the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Scheme, visit www.hiddendisabilitiesstore.com or social media (Twitter, Facebook and Instagram).