The lanyards are instantly recognisable to all employees, who have received specialised training to effectively support adults and children with hidden disabilities.
Stephen Patton, Human Resources and Corporate Responsibility Manager at Belfast City Airport, added:
“We always try to ensure our passengers journey through the airport exceeds their expectations and while we already offer full assistance to those with reduced mobility, the introduction of these lanyards will ensure those with hidden disabilities are facilitated for.
“The lanyards will alert airport employees to those passengers who may require discreet assistance, giving them additional time to not only get through security, but across the entire airport.”
Dr Nichola Booth is a Certified Behaviour Analyst at the Autism charity PEAT NI. She said:
“These lanyards will help make airport travel less stressful for families and individuals coming through Belfast City Airport.
For families involved with PEAT NI many have said that having that additional support at the airport can make such a big difference.”
Nicola Farmbrough, is Station Manager of CCS at Belfast City Airport, the company who assist passengers with disabilities through the terminal. She said:
“Our team has been trained to use clear language and to avoid separating those travelling with the lanyards from their friends or family. They are aware of the importance of discretion and want to ensure that Belfast City Airport is accessible for all.”
The lanyards can be collected from the Special Assistance desk in the main terminal. They are free of charge and do not need to be returned, giving users the ability to reuse them each time they travel through Belfast City Airport.
You can read more about Belfast City Airport and the introduction of their Hidden Disability lanyards at http://www.belfastcityairport.com/At-The-Airport/Special-Assistance.
Nichola Booth, PEAT NI, is joined by Terry from CCS and Stephen Patton, Corporate Responsibility and HR Manager at George Best Belfast City Airport for the launch of the Hidden Disability Lanyards
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