Disability Cards & Carer Passes for Days Out
If your child has autism, ADHD, sensory processing differences or other special educational needs, the right disability card can make a real difference to family days out. Some cards unlock free carer entry so you are not paying double at the gate. Others let staff know your child has a hidden disability, so they can offer extra patience, queue priority or a quieter space. Together they can reduce the cost of days out and take away some of the stress of explaining your family's needs at every venue. Below we explain each scheme, who qualifies, and how to apply.
CEA Card
Free companion ticket at participating cinemas across the UK. Costs £6 and lasts three years.
Who it's for: People receiving DLA, PIP, or AA, and those registered blind or partially sighted.
🌻Sunflower Lanyard
A green lanyard with sunflower pattern that signals a hidden disability to staff. Free to collect from many venues.
Who it's for: Anyone with a hidden disability - autism, ADHD, anxiety, chronic illness and more.
🪪Access Card
A personalised card showing what adjustments a person needs, using a simple symbol system.
Who it's for: Anyone with a disability or long-term health condition. Issued after assessment by Nimbus Disability.
🎟️Free Carer Entry
Many UK attractions offer free admission for one carer accompanying a disabled visitor. Policies vary by venue.
Who it's for: Carers accompanying someone with a disability. Proof required varies by venue.
🅿️Blue Badge
A parking permit for people with severe mobility problems or certain disabilities, allowing use of disabled bays.
Who it's for: People who struggle to walk, children under 3 with certain conditions, and those with non-visible disabilities.
Which card do I need?
Each card serves a different purpose. You can hold more than one at the same time.
| Card | What it does | Cost | Proof needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| CEA Card | Free companion ticket at cinemas | £6 for 3 years | DLA, PIP, AA or registered blind |
| Access Card | Shows venues what adjustments you need; free carer entry at many attractions | £15 for 3 years | DLA, PIP, diagnosis letter, EHCP or professional letter |
| Sunflower Lanyard | Signals a hidden disability to staff for extra patience and support | Free (collect in-store) or small postage fee online | None — no assessment or diagnosis required |
| Blue Badge | Disabled parking closer to venue entrances | Up to £10 for 3 years | DLA higher-rate mobility, PIP mobility 8+, or individual assessment |
| Free Carer Entry | Free admission for one carer at participating venues | Free (no card needed) | Varies — DLA letter, Access Card, Blue Badge, or GP letter |
What proof of disability do I need for days out?
There is no single standard. Different venues and schemes accept different forms of evidence. The most widely accepted proof includes:
- DLA (Disability Living Allowance) award letter
- PIP (Personal Independence Payment) award letter
- Access Card with relevant symbols
- Blue Badge
- Letter from a GP, consultant or paediatrician
- EHCP (Education, Health and Care Plan)
If your child has a diagnosis but you have not yet applied for benefits, a letter from your GP or diagnosing clinician is usually accepted. Many venues are understanding and flexible — if in doubt, phone ahead.
Find venues that accept these passes
SENlens scores every venue for SEN suitability. Use our search to find venues with confirmed carer entry policies and disability card acceptance.
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