HDSS
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Scheme (HDSS) is a global initiative that enables people with non-visible disabilities to discreetly signal that they may need support, understanding, or assistance. Participants wear a sunflower lanyard, wristband, or pin in designated “Sunflower-friendly” spaces, where those around them are trained to respond with compassion and care.
Disabilities such as autism, chronic pain, anxiety, dementia, or sensory impairments may not be visible — but they are real.
In Aotearoa New Zealand 1 in 5 people experience some form of disability. Roughly 80 – 85% of these people have a disability that is not visible.
The Sunflower Scheme helps make the invisible, visible.
This is the first time a Catholic diocese in Aotearoa New Zealand has adopted the HDSS. It is a bold, Spirit-led response to what emerged in our synodal discernment:
A deep longing for greater inclusivity, fellowship, and healing in the Church.
Over 230 submissions (representing more than 500 people) revealed that many feel disconnected from parish life, and long for a Church that welcomes everyone — not in word only, but in action.
By adopting the HDSS, we are living out our diocesan mission of radical welcome and ensuring all people, regardless of ability or circumstance, can find a true home in the Body of Christ.
Inclusion isn’t an optional extra. It’s the shape love takes when it seeks to see others as God sees them — with dignity, delight, and an open-armed welcome.
Inclusion is a Gospel imperative. It reflects the heart of Catholic Social Teaching and aligns with our diocesan vision of being a Church that is welcoming, participatory, and missionary — a Church for all.
Building Inclusive Parishes and Schools
The HDSS is part of a three-part diocesan approach to inclusion:
1. Identifying those in our communities who experience disability.
2. Engaging with them to understand their needs and invite their leadership.
3. Auditing our buildings and worship spaces for accessibility and hospitality.
Each parish will form a Disability Forum to advise local leadership, carry out inclusion audits, and help embed a culture of welcome at every level of parish life. Our schools are also encouraged to be part of this journey.
We are guided by the principle:
“Nothing about us without us.”
People who experience disability must lead this work — not be the subjects of it.
Training and Awareness
On July 1, the Diocese held a training day to launch the Sunflower Scheme, with over 50 participants across ministry, schools, and advocacy groups. Susan Wright, an HDSS trainer from Australia, joined via Zoom to offer training and answer questions.
Participants were encouraged to:
– Display HDSS signage
– Undertake inclusion audits (using templates from Elevate Christian Disability Trust)
– Invite and empower disabled leaders in parish life
– Undergo disability awareness training
These are simple, practical steps that make a huge difference.
More Than Just a Symbol
The Sunflower is not about tokenism, but about recognising people’s dignity and offering practical welcome.
“We’re not just supporting those who wear the Sunflower — we’re fostering a complete culture shift. Radical welcome doesn’t stop at disability; it extends to anyone who feels excluded.”
This includes those who are mentally unwell, formerly incarcerated, part of the Rainbow community, or otherwise marginalised. Everyone matters — or no one does.
How You Can Be Involved
We invite you — whether you experience disability yourself, or simply care about building an inclusive Church — to be part of this journey:
Join a parish disability forum
Undertake Sunflower training
Support the use of Sunflower symbols in your community
Listen to those whose voices have too often been ignored
Let’s become a diocese where barriers are removed, everyone is seen, and all belong.
Learn More / Contact
To find out more or to get involved, contact:
David Loving-Molloy – Leader & Advisor of Inclusion
[email protected]
