Access Card

What is the Access Card?

The Access Card is a nationally recognised card that replaces the need to repeatedly explain your disability at every venue you visit. Instead of carrying medical letters or having difficult conversations at ticket desks, the card displays symbols showing the specific adjustments you need - such as a companion, a quiet space, priority access, or a wheelchair accessible route.

How does it work?

Each card displays a set of symbols that describe your access requirements. Examples include:

• Companion needed (free carer entry at participating venues)
• Quiet space required
• Priority access needed
• Wheelchair user
• Cannot stand for long periods
• Communication support needed

Participating venues display which symbols they can accommodate. When you present your card, staff can see at a glance what support you need without you having to explain.

Who can apply?

Anyone with a disability, long-term health condition or access requirement can apply. This includes children with autism, ADHD, sensory processing difficulties, physical disabilities, chronic illness and mental health conditions. A parent or guardian can apply on behalf of a child.

Can you apply without a formal diagnosis?

Yes. You do not need a formal diagnosis to apply for an Access Card. Nimbus Disability accepts a range of evidence including a letter from a GP, consultant, SENCO, or other professional involved in your child's care. A school assessment letter or referral letter can also be accepted. This is particularly important for families on long waiting lists for diagnosis — you do not need to wait for a formal assessment before applying.

What evidence do you need to apply?

Nimbus Disability accepts a range of evidence. You will typically need one of the following:

• DLA or PIP award letter
• Diagnosis letter from a consultant or paediatrician
• EHCP (Education, Health and Care Plan)
• Letter from a GP confirming your condition
• Letter from a SENCO or other professional involved in your care
• Attendance Allowance letter

A photo or scan of the document is accepted — you do not need to post originals. Processing typically takes a few working days, though it can be longer during school holidays.

How much does the Access Card cost?

The full Access Card costs around £15 and is valid for three years. There is also a free Digital Access Pass available for single-venue use, but the full card works at all participating venues and is better value if you visit multiple attractions. The card can be physical (posted to you) or digital (on your phone).

How to apply

Applications are made online at accesscard.online (run by Nimbus Disability). You will need to provide evidence of your condition - this can be a DLA/PIP award letter, a letter from a medical professional, or an EHCP for children. The card costs around £15 and is valid for three years. There is a short assessment process to determine which symbols apply to your situation.

Where is it accepted?

The Access Card is accepted at a growing list of venues across the UK, including theme parks, zoos, museums, heritage sites, theatres and sporting events. Many venues that accept the Access Card offer free carer entry when the card shows a companion symbol. The Nimbus Disability website maintains a searchable list of participating venues.

How does the Access Card work at theme parks?

At Merlin parks (Alton Towers, LEGOLAND, Chessington, Thorpe Park and others), the Access Card is a prerequisite for the Ride Access Pass (RAP). The RAP provides virtual queuing so your child does not need to wait in physical queues. To use it:

• Apply for an Access Card first (allow a few days for processing)
• Register for the Ride Access Pass through the Merlin app
• Pre-book your RAP before your visit — ideally at least a few weeks in advance

Other theme parks such as Paultons Park and Drayton Manor have their own accessibility processes, but many accept the Access Card as proof of disability. Always check the venue's accessibility page before visiting.

Access Card vs CEA Card

The Access Card and CEA Card serve different purposes. The CEA Card is specifically for cinemas and provides a free companion ticket. The Access Card works across thousands of venues — theme parks, zoos, museums, theatres and more — and shows what adjustments you need using a symbol system. You can hold both cards at the same time.

Tips for SEN families

• The Access Card can be particularly helpful for children with hidden disabilities who may not "look" disabled - it removes the burden of explaining and justifying at every venue.
• Some venues accept the Access Card for priority queue access, which can make a significant difference for children who find waiting stressful.
• Check the venue's accessibility page before visiting to see which Access Card symbols they accommodate.
• The card can be used alongside other schemes - for example, you can hold both an Access Card and a CEA Card.