Recognition for hidden disabilities sunflower

HOVERTRAVEL have announced they will officially recognise the hidden disabilities sunflower symbol on their services.

The ferry company, who operate from Southsea, Portsmouth to Ryde in the Isle of Wight, say customers can choose to wear the lanyard to show they need additional support, assistance or extra time while travelling.

Hovertravel is reportedly the first cross-Solent ferry operator to recognise the symbol.

Neil Chapman, managing director of Hovertravel said: ‘By partnering with the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower we are continuing on our journey to make hovercraft travel accessible to all and we want to become the crossSolent ferry of choice for customers with visible and invisible disabilities.

‘Our commitment to accessibility has been certified by the government and our HoverCare imitative has been commended by regional and national award schemes.’

Paul White, CEO of Hidden Disabilities Sunflower added: ‘We are impressed at the depth and scope of Hovertravel’s commitment to accessibility and feel that the Sunflower perfectly aligns to the highly commended HoverCare initiative. Sunflower wearers with non-visible disabilities will travel with confidence in the knowledge they will be met with understanding by Hovertravel crew on their journey.’ In 2020 Hovertravel was awarded ‘Leader’ level in the government’s Inclusive Transport Leaders Scheme.