Lego® is a global phenomenon, enjoyed by people of all different ages all over the world. It provides a unique experience that focuses on creativity, freeing the user to imagine just about anything they wish. The brand, which is the largest toymaker on the planet, continually extends its range and in recent years has begun introducing characters (known as 'minifigs') that make its products more inclusive.
 |
| SDO® Original Suit in the No. 5 Goalie theme, by Medigarments Ltd |
Minifigs are characteristically yellow in colour but Lego has introduced characters with many different skin tones and which represent numerous cultures. More recently, minifigs have been produced which represent people with disabilities and conditions both visible and non-visible, including vitiligo, anxiety, Down syndrome and limb differences, among others.
A new range of Lego sets incorporates characters who wear sunflower lanyards, which indicate that the wearer has a non-visible disability such as autism or ADHD. The sets come as the result of a partnership between Lego and the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower scheme.
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower scheme began in 2016 at London's busy Gatwick Airport. In collaboration with the Airport Passenger Advisory Group, the team at Gatwick consulted experts from several national charities including the Alzheimer's Society, Visualise and the National Autistic Society.
It was concluded that using a lanyard with an easily-identifiable symbol would assist people who live with hidden disabilities, signalling that they may need extra support, time and understanding. The sunflower symbol was chosen because it 'reflect[s] the idea of confidence, growth and strength, as well as introducing happiness and positivity'. Today, the lanyard is recognised by myriad organisations in more than 90 different countries.
 |
| SDO® Lite Vest in black, by Medigarments Ltd |
With the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower scheme starting life in an airport, it is fitting that two of the new Lego sets are based in this location. One of the sets is named 'First Time at the Airport' and is from Lego's Duplo brand, which is aimed at young children. Designed to 'help toddlers navigate feelings about airports', the set includes a child who is wearing a sunflower lanyard and clutching a suitcase and teddy bear. Another set, made for older children, depicts a typical airport scene and comes with a character named Ryan who is wearing a sunflower lanyard along with noise-reducing headphones.
Comfort & Care: SDO® garments champion inclusivity
At Medigarments Ltd, we are dedicated to providing high-quality dynamic compression garments designed to offer therapeutic benefits for individuals living with a wide variety of disabilities and medical conditions. Our flagship SDO® Original range, which includes garments specially designed for individuals with sensory processing challenges and musculoskeletal disorders, is our leading dynamic compression range. These compression garments are engineered with advanced Lycra® and provide gentle yet effective pressure, helping to improve comfort, mobility, and overall well-being.
 |
| Sensory Hug® in the Bulldog theme, by Medigarments Ltd |
We are particularly excited to hear about LEGO's new inclusive playsets, which highlight the importance of creating accessible and adaptive environments for individuals with diverse needs. Just as LEGO has made significant strides in ensuring that all children, regardless of ability, can engage with their toys, we at Medigarments Ltd are committed to making a positive impact by offering products that provide both therapeutic and practical solutions for our customers.
In addition to our SDO® Original collection, we also offer the SDO® Lite range, which is designed to provide a more lightweight compression option for those who may require a less intense form of support. For individuals with heightened sensory needs, our Sensory Hug® stands out as a unique solution, delivering a comforting, cuddle-like pressure to help promote a sense of security and calmness.
We invite you to explore our website to learn more about the full range of SDO® products and discover how they can enhance your quality of life or the lives of those you care for. Our team is always happy to answer any questions and guide you through the options that best suit your needs.
Please subscribe to our free newsletter to receive this article, along with lots of other updates and special features, direct to your email inbox. Please support us in spreading the word by liking and following us on LinkedIn,Facebook, X and Instagram.
SDO® Original, SDO® Lite and Sensory Hug® are part of The World of SDO® Sensory Dynamic Orthosis™ range of dynamic Lycra® compression garments by Medigarments Ltd. SDO® and Sensory Dynamic Orthosis™ are trademarks of Medigarments Ltd.
