Initiative helps those with non-visible disabilities
ASB has become the first bank in New Zealand to join the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower programme, a not-for-profit initiative that helps customers with non-visible disabilities discreetly signal their need for extra support through a Sunflower Lanyard or pin.
With nearly a quarter of New Zealanders living with some form of disability and one in 10 serving as carers, this partnership marks a significant step towards inclusivity.
Supporting hidden disabilities
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower programme addresses the needs of those with more than 900 listed hidden disabilities, including the long-lasting effects of injuries, neurodiversity such as ADHD or autism, and chronic health conditions like arthritis or diabetes. These conditions are not immediately visible, making it challenging for others to recognise the need for additional care.
Commitment to inclusivity
Rosalyn Clarke, ASB general manager of business transformation and customer outcomes, expressed her enthusiasm for the initiative.
“We’re so excited to begin this journey with the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower,” Clarke said. “It’s a really important conversation that we’re proud to support, to help make ASB an inclusive space for all of our customers.”
The ASB leader highlighted the role of the bank’s Neurodiversity Network Group in spearheading this initiative.
“This initiative is another way we are building on the extra care and support options we have available for our customers, and showing up in a way that responds to specific needs,” she said.
Partnership and training
Sandee Facy, head of business Development for Australia and New Zealand for the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower initiative, welcomed ASB’s commitment.
“We are thrilled to welcome ASB to the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower initiative,” Facy said. “Utilising the sunflower as a subtle yet powerful communication tool to create a safe and inclusive place to work both internally and externally.
“We thank ASB for their commitment and we look forward to supporting the journey as the sunflower complements the other great work being done across the bank.”
ASB will begin training its staff in the coming months to understand hidden disabilities, recognise the sunflower symbol, and offer extra support to customers or colleagues who wear one.
More ASB accessibility initiatives
Alongside this initiative, ASB has implemented various measures to make banking accessible for all customers. These include interpretation services for deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals, wheelchair-accessible branches and ATMs, and debit and credit cards with braille for those with impaired sight.
To learn more about the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, purchase a lanyard, or get involved, click here. To explore ASB's accessibility initiatives, click here.
ASB, which was recognised at the Canstar Innovation Excellence Awards, recently reported that funding New Zealand’s infrastructure to withstand future challenges like climate change will require $1 trillion over the next 30 years.
Read the ASB media release here.
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