The IRFU, in partnership with Energia, has become a member of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, a global network which supports people with any hidden disability or condition who may need a helping hand at work, on transport and/or in public spaces.
Without a visual cue, it can be difficult for others to identify, acknowledge or understand daily barriers faced by people living with a non-visible disability. The Sunflower lanyard, pin badge or wristband is a simple tool to encourage understanding and inclusivity.
Building on the results of a recent EDI survey among IRFU staff and across the game, the sporting organisation is putting steps in place to have a more diverse workforce and a more inclusive membership across its affiliated clubs.
Following training at Aviva Stadium in April, staff now have a better understanding of how to support people living with disabilities and know that about 1 in 5 people in Ireland have a disability with 80% them being non-visible.
As part of the IRFU membership to Hidden Disabilities Sunflower in Ireland, clubs across the country have access to the Sunflower training and resources, which will help to develop a greater awareness among the rugby community that anyone wearing the Sunflower might need a little more time, extra help and understanding.
The IRFU has 54 clubs involved in the direct delivery of the game to people with disabilities as well as players in all clubs that have additional needs.
Access to the Sunflower will provide additional support for these players, as well as raise awareness among the membership, of how to offer support to make the environment more welcoming and inclusive for all.
“As a national governing body for a sport that offers inclusive formats, it is important we have that diversity across the whole of the organisation,” said IRFU Head of EDI, Anne Marie Hughes.
“Membership of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower scheme allows us to raise awareness not just within teams involved in disability rugby but across the entire membership.”
“The green lanyard supported by Energia, can be worn by people with a non-visible disability, while the white ‘I Support’ lanyards are for staff and volunteers to show their understanding of the Sunflower and support those with non-visible disabilities. We are on a journey to making rugby as welcoming and inclusive to as many people as possible and this is another step to providing greater access and understanding to wider rugby community.”
“The IRFU is the first sport governing body in Ireland to become a member of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower,” added Tristan Casson-Rennie, Regional Director for Hidden Disabilities Sunflower in Ireland & Northern Ireland.
“I am thrilled to welcome them along with all of the rugby clubs across the country who will now be able to recognise their members who may live with a non-visible disability or condition. Recognising the Sunflower will make rugby more inclusive to everyone, supporting people playing rugby, and spectators watching a game.”
“We are delighted to be supporting Hidden Disabilities Sunflower and recognize its powerful symbol of understanding and support,” said Lorna Danaher, Sponsorship Manager of Energia.
“It serves as an important reminder that not all disabilities are visible, fostering empathy and inclusivity in our communities. We are determined to continue our support of Irish Rugby to make the game more inclusive for everyone, and Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is leading the way in that effort.”
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