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5 min read
Hidden Disability Cards: A Small Card That Makes a Big Difference
Written by
Georgina, Founder of Purpl
Published on
September 17, 2025
Not every disability can be seen, and I know from personal experience how exhausting it can be to constantly explain yourself to strangers or staff. Hidden disability cards take away some of that pressure. They’re simple, discreet, and surprisingly powerful when it comes to making everyday life that bit easier.
What is a Hidden Disability Card?
A hidden disability card is exactly what it sounds like — a way to let people know that you might need a little more time, patience, or support, even if they can’t see why. For so many of us living with hidden conditions, we don’t ask for special treatment — we simply want understanding without having to justify ourselves every single time.
I often think of it as a confidence booster. Whether you’re at a busy train station, in a shop queue, or even just grabbing a coffee, being able to quietly show a card can save energy and reduce stress.
Popular Options: Disabled ID (DID) Card and Sunflower Card
Two of the most recognised options out there are the DID card and the Sunflower card:
- DID Card – This one works as a photo ID that proves you have a disability, visible or hidden. It’s useful in shops, when travelling, or even in workplaces and education settings. It’s one of those things you don’t think you’ll need until you actually do, and then it’s a lifesaver.
- Sunflower Card and Lanyard – You’ve probably spotted the sunflower lanyards in airports, supermarkets, or larger venues. The Sunflower card and lanyard are internationally recognised symbols of hidden disabilities. The lanyard makes the sunflower instantly visible without you needing to say a word, while the card adds extra detail if you’d prefer something discreet in your wallet or bag.
How to Get a Hidden Disability Card
The good news is that both cards are easy to apply for — you don’t need to go through complicated forms or endless proof.
- Getting a DID Card – You can apply directly through the official DID Card website. You’ll usually need to upload a passport-style photo and provide a few basic details about your disability. Once your application is complete, the card is sent directly to your home.
- Getting a Sunflower Card and Lanyard – You can order these online from the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower store. Many large venues, supermarkets, airports, and even some GP practices also provide them free of charge. Some councils and charities also offer them locally, so it’s worth checking.
DID Card vs Sunflower Lanyard: Which is Right for You?
Both the DID card and the Sunflower lanyard are valuable tools, but they serve slightly different purposes. Here’s how they compare:
DID Card
- Acts as official photo ID for people with visible and hidden disabilities.
- Can be used as proof when applying for free carer tickets at attractions, cinemas, and events.
- Recognised when signing up to Purpl, giving you access to our exclusive discounts.
- Saves you from carrying paperwork such as PIP letters or Blue Badge copies.
- Fits neatly in your wallet — discreet and easy to carry everywhere.
Sunflower Lanyard and Card
- Acts as a visible symbol that you may need extra time, support, or understanding.
- Recognised internationally in airports, supermarkets, and large venues.
- Often available free of charge from airports, supermarkets, GP practices, and some councils.
- Comes with the option of a lanyard or card, depending on whether you want something visible or more discreet.
- Not usually accepted as proof for free carer tickets or discounts — it’s about awareness, not eligibility.
Free Carer Places and Accessibility
One of the most common questions is whether you need a hidden disability card to access free carer tickets or places. The answer is: not necessarily.
- Free carer places are available at many attractions, cinemas, and events when you can show proof such as a Blue Badge, PIP award letter, or another accepted form of evidence. You don’t have to buy a card to access these benefits.
- However, a DID card can make the process smoother by acting as a recognised form of ID for disabled people. It can save you the stress of carrying lots of paperwork around and is also accepted when signing up to Purpl, giving you access to our wide range of discounts with big-name brands and everyday essentials.
- The Sunflower lanyard and card aren’t usually used for proof of eligibility in the same way, but they’re fantastic for signalling that you may need a little more time, support, or understanding in busy public spaces.
So while a hidden disability card is a helpful tool, it’s not the only way to access support — and it’s always your choice what works best for you.
Why Hidden Disability Cards Matter
For me, what makes these cards so important is that they give you a choice. You don’t always want to share details about your condition with a stranger, and you shouldn’t have to. With a card or lanyard, you can quietly communicate what you need without opening up your whole medical history.
They also:
- Raise Awareness – reminding people that not every disability is visible.
- Build Confidence – because sometimes just having that card or lanyard with you is enough to feel reassured.
- Open Doors – making it easier to access adjustments, support, and discounts.
Honestly, it’s about dignity as much as practicality.
Everyday Discounts and Accessibility
At Purpl, I’m passionate about helping disabled people save money and feel valued. You can use a DID card to sign up to Purpl and starting accessing offers and exclusive discounts for our community. Our members save over £700 a year with discounts on groceries, energy, technology and more. Mention Purpl when buying your DID card and you can get 6 months extra for free.
Final Thoughts
A hidden disability card or sunflower lanyard might look small, but they make a huge difference when it comes to inclusion and independence. Whether you go for the DID card, the Sunflower card and lanyard, or both, you’re giving yourself one less thing to worry about when the world already asks a lot of you.
And if you’re like me, you’ll find that carrying one isn’t just about convenience — it’s about confidence, peace of mind, and knowing you deserve that little bit of extra understanding.
About the Author
Georgina is the founder of Purpl, a platform dedicated to helping disabled people save money through exclusive discounts. Living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and ADHD, she understands firsthand the financial challenges of living with a disability. Her mission is to work with brands to secure discounts that ease the cost of essential products, services, and everyday expenses for the disabled community.
As an ambulatory wheelchair user, Georgina knows how it feels to lose independence due to a disability. She is passionate about holistic therapies and diet to manage inflammation and stay as healthy as possible. Her goal is to make Purpl an essential resource for disabled people, offering practical support, advice, and financial relief.
Beyond Purpl, Georgina has a long-term vision to launch a foundation providing grants for disabled people who need extra financial support.
Follow @Purpldiscounts on social media for the latest disability discounts, financial advice, and accessibility resources.
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