The Nuclear Institute and its Young Generation Network (YGN) are proud to join the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Network, supporting their strategic aims of fostering a truly inclusive and representative membership base.
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a globally recognised symbol designed to indicate that an individual has a non-visible disability and may require additional support, assistance, or patience.
Sunflower lanyards will be made available at upcoming events, starting with the Institute’s Volunteer Forum and the YGN Annual Seminar and Dinner this autumn to promote an inclusive environment and make events more accessible. Following this the aim is to have all YGN, Regional Branches and Special Interest Groups embracing HD Sunflower in their activities.
Robert Gofton, CEO of the Nuclear Institute, commented:
“I’m pleased to share that we’ve joined the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Network. This is a meaningful step in our ongoing commitment to inclusion. In a sector where visibility and safety are paramount, it’s just as important to acknowledge the less visible challenges that some of our members and visitors face.
The Sunflower symbol is a quiet but powerful way to show that we’re here to offer understanding, and support, all without requiring anyone to explain themselves. It’s a small change that can make a big difference in creating a more welcoming and accessible environment for everyone”.
Alanna Downing, ED&I Lead for the NI YGN said:
I am beyond thrilled that the Nuclear Institute and the Young Generation Network are now members of the Hidden Disability Sunflower Scheme. As both the ED&I Lead for the YGN, and an autistic person living with an invisible impairment myself, this scheme has always meant a huge amount to me, and I cannot wait to share it with the wider nuclear sector.
As a part of the YGN strategy, the theme “encourage” focuses on advocacy, communications and attracting a diverse workforce. The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower will help to visually show our commitment to continue this work. We will keep working together with Enable Nuclear as well as the other Nuclear Inclusivity Groups to support this as collaboration is a big part of our mission”.
Craig Pilkington, Chair of the Young Generation Network, added:
“I'm delighted for the YGN and the Nuclear Institute to become part of the Hidden Disability Sunflower Scheme - the YGN is continuing to develop and improve its offering to all of our members and beyond to help them feel welcomed at each of our events and as part of our community. It's fantastic to see the positive changes our Inclusivity team have been driving and I'm really proud of their efforts and the inclusion into this scheme".