The Nimbus Disability Access Card is the largest disability access scheme for venues across the UK. It allows you to easily communicate your accessibility needs to service providers all across the country. It is a small photo ID card that has icons for the various access requirements someone may need.
For example, a plus one carer ticket if you require one. It allows you to easily customise what you get access to based on your own needs. The card is used to make things easier for disabled people wanting to access venues the same as their able-bodied counterparts as much as possible. The card costs £15 for 3 years, however, each individual venue will allow you to apply for the scheme for free – though you will need to reapply every time you with to use the scheme if you do so this way.Â
What it can provide
The Access Card can provide the following accessibility requirements:Â
- Difficulty standing – for those who have a physical mobility impairment that makes it difficult to stand for long periods of timeÂ
- Difficulty with crowds – those who have difficulty in large crowds as well as difficulty navigating crowds – often due to neurodivergence or mental health conditions
- Level access – for those who require wheelchair access around the venue or who cannot navigate stairsÂ
- Distance – for those who have trouble moving around more than a short distanceÂ
- Urgent toilet access – for those who need urgent access to any toilet whether that be an accessible one or otherÂ
- Essential companion – for those who need a carer or a companion with them can receive one for freeÂ
- Visual information – for those who need information in a vision accessible format (like braille or large print)Â
- Audible information – for those who have trouble accessing auditory informationÂ
- Miscellaneous information – for any other accessible requirements not stated aboveÂ
Places that use the Access Card
There are over 3,000 venues across the UK that use the Access Card, from a range of different services, such as:Â
- FestivalsÂ
- ConcertsÂ
- ConventionsÂ
- Theme parksÂ
- MuseumsÂ
- TheatresÂ
And many more. Although please note it is worth checking with the services provider or on their website before booking any tickets to check that they do accept the Access Card.Â
Applying for an Access CardÂ
You are eligible for an access card if you have a disability or long term health condition under the Equality Act 2010 that impacts your ability to access places of interest. You must provide evidence of your disability or health condition in order to apply for the Access Card. Accepted evidence can include the following:Â
- Proof of disability related benefits such as DLA, PIP or Attendance Allowance
- A letter from a medical professional aware of your needsÂ
- Other documentation such as occupational health reports, care plans or OT assessments
NOTE: things such as blue badges, ESA letters, US letters, or COVID extension letters cannot be used as evidence.Â
In order to apply for the Nimbus Disability Access Card, click here.
