Managing daily to do’s can be challenging for people living with a chronic illness, in particular endometriosis. There are a few schemes available you may wish to consider helping make your day-day less challenging.

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The Hidden Disability Sunflower Lanyard scheme

 

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyard scheme came about in 2016 in aid of making travel for people with hidden disabilities a more manageable experience. Staff at Gatwick Airport teamed up with national and local charities to design the lanyard, to help the public identify those wearing it may need extra assistance. 

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The lanyard can be worn by anyone with a disability, illness or chronic condition such age-related conditions, mental health problems, endometriosis, and many other conditions that impact you day-to-day. 

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There are several places you can retrieve a lanyard, such as railway stations, some supermarkets and retail stores, leisure centres, visitor attractions, and hospitals. You can also purchase a lanyard online for a small fee.

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The radar key

 

The radar key scheme came around in 1981. The key is large, silver, and it can be used to open more than 10,000 locked, disabled toilets in the UK. The key is part of the National Key Scheme (NKS) which is available to people with disabilities and health conditions to allow access to locked public toilets.

 

Disabled toilets are spacious and private, and less likely to be occupied, ensuring accessibility for those who need them.

 

You can order your key here, alternatively you can purchase a key from your local pharmacy for a small fee.

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Offer me a seat' badge scheme

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Transport for London introduced the ‘please offer me a seat badge’ scheme in 2017 to help people with disabilities, including hidden disabilities, travel comfortably. This badge may be particularly helpful for those who struggle to stand for long periods of time, and they can be used on all London transport.

 

You can order your badge here.

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Blue Badge

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The Blue Badge scheme was introduced in 1971 to help people with disabilities or health conditions park close by their destination You can apply for the Blue Badge scheme if you:

 

• Find walking difficult

• Cannot walk without the support of someone else or walking aids

• Find walking difficult due to pain, breathlessness or the time it takes

• Frequently become fearful or anxious in public/ open spaces

 

Those who receive the higher rate of the Disability Living Allowance (DLA) and Personal Independence Payment (PIP) allowance (who cannot walk more than 50 metres) or the mobility component of PIP will automatically qualify.

 

A Blue Badge costs £10 in England, £20 if you live in Scotland and it’s free for those living in Wales. The badge lasts for up to 3 years and you will need to apply to renew the badge before its date of expiry.

 

You can apply for a Blue Badge here. Your local council will decide if your eligible for a badge. They will require all the necessary information from you to process your application. If your application is denied and you feel your application has not been considered thoroughly, you can ask for ypur application to be considered again.