Hidden disability lanyard
Thank you to a parent who told us about this.
For children who find airports stressful, Gatwick and Heathrow have a “hidden disability lanyard” (same for both airports). Your children wear it around their neck (or you can wear it for them). We use it when we travel. The boys got to skip the queue for check in. Security sent us straight through, and the people checking us were much more patient and helpful (especially as xxxxx was refusing to have his toy scanned- they asked to cuddle it, and then popped it through while he wasn’t looking). It can be a bit hit and miss, as it depends on what staff you get (and how well that person has been trained), but it makes travelling a whole lot easier.
You can pick one up free at the airport (at the assistance desk), or, if you email them, they might be able to send you one in advance. It is green, with sunflowers. They mailed one to us. Makes life SO much easier when travelling!
You can find out more about disability assistance and accessibility when flying on the GOV.UK website
Accessible Aviation and Tryb4ufly
The Queen Elizabeth Foundation (QEF) support people considering flight who need practical help and advice including flight videos.