CEA Card

What is the CEA Card?

The Cinema Exhibitors' Association (CEA) Card is a national scheme that allows disabled cinema-goers to receive a free ticket for someone accompanying them. The card is accepted at all major UK cinema chains.

Who qualifies?

You can apply if you are:

• In receipt of Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
• In receipt of Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
• In receipt of Attendance Allowance (AA)
• In receipt of Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP)
• Registered blind or partially sighted
• In receipt of Universal Credit with a limited capability for work element

Children receiving DLA are eligible. A parent or guardian can apply on their behalf.

Can I get a CEA card without DLA or PIP?

If you or your child does not currently receive disability benefits, you may still be able to apply. The CEA accepts applications on an individual basis with alternative evidence such as a letter from a GP, consultant, or other medical professional confirming a disability. This can be particularly relevant for families who are in the process of applying for DLA or awaiting an assessment. If your initial application is declined, you can reapply once you have additional supporting evidence.

Applying for your child

Children aged 5 and over are eligible for a CEA Card. A parent or guardian can apply on their behalf. You will need a passport-style photo of your child and proof of their disability or condition. The card will be issued in the child's name, but the companion (the person who gets the free ticket) can be any adult and does not need to be the same person each time.

How to apply

Applications are made online at ceacard.co.uk. You will need to upload proof of your disability benefit (such as a DLA or PIP award letter). The card costs £6 and is valid for three years. Processing usually takes around five working days.

Which cinemas accept it?

The CEA Card is accepted at all major UK cinema chains, including:

• Odeon
• Vue
• Cineworld
• Everyman
• Showcase
• Picturehouse
• Empire
• Curzon

Some independent cinemas also participate. Check with your local cinema if you are unsure.

Autism-friendly and relaxed screenings

Many UK cinema chains run monthly autism-friendly or relaxed screenings with adjustments such as:

• Lower volume and no trailers
• Raised lighting throughout the film
• A more relaxed atmosphere where movement and noise from the audience is expected
• Smaller audiences

Your CEA Card works at these screenings in the same way as standard showings — your companion still gets a free ticket. Chains including Odeon, Cineworld, Vue, Showcase and Picturehouse all offer regular relaxed screenings. Check your local cinema's website or the Dimensions UK website for upcoming dates.

Booking online with a CEA card

Most major cinema chains allow you to apply your CEA Card when booking online. At checkout, look for a field to enter your CEA Card number — the companion ticket will then be added at no cost. If you cannot find the option online, you can book by phone or show your card at the box office on the day. Booking in advance can help avoid queues, which is particularly useful for children who find busy foyers stressful.

Tips for SEN families

• Many cinemas also run autism-friendly or relaxed screenings with lower volume, raised lighting and a more relaxed atmosphere. These can be combined with CEA Card use.
• Book online or by phone if your child finds queuing stressful - show the card at the ticket desk to collect tickets.
• The companion does not need to be the same person each time.