I was able to apply for access cards for both of my twins a number of years ago, and I find they are a handy thing to have on us for days out. Here are a few things that might be helpful to know if you are thinking of applying for one.
What is the Access Card?
As stated on the official Access Card website, “The physical card acts as a photo ID that can be used to easily communicate your access requirements to events and venues.” A card costs £15 for three years. Our Access Cards for the twins have little photos of their faces, and then a row of symbols underneath, which indicate their needs in a really clear way. The symbols on ours include the WC symbol to indicate that their disabilities might mean they need urgent access to a loo at any time, a queueing symbol, meaning that they struggle to queue, and a plus one symbol, indicating that they need a carer with them at all times. The choice of symbols seems to have changed a little bit since our cards were issued, but you can find an up to date list of the symbols available for Access Cards here.
Where can I use the card?
Lots of places across the UK recognise the Access Card as a kind of ‘proof of needs’ document. I have been able to use it on days out as proof that the children each require a carer with them, as our cards show the plus one symbol. This, in turn, makes us eligible for free carer passes at many places. It’s worth noting that places often accept documents like DWP letters detailing DLA awards as proof that children with disabilities need a carer, but I find the physical card a much easier thing to show at ticket offices than an official letter.
You can find a page on the Access Card website that details the places that recognise the card. Places we have been able to use it include Sealife Centres, local wildlife parks, Chester Zoo, local softplay centres, our local sports centre when applying for discounted annual passes, and Drayton Manor. I can see from the map on the website that there are a handful of places overseas that also recognise the Access Card. I tend to always have it on me when out and about with the children, just in case we are ever anywhere that might need to see proof of disability.
If you plan on visiting Alton Towers, you can use your Access Card to apply for a Ride Access Pass, which I have written about before here.
Does my child qualify?
If you can provide ample evidence of disability then it is worth applying. When I applied for cards for my children, I provided a mountain of evidence so there was less chance of my applications being rejected. I submitted copies of formal diagnoses, DLA award letters, details for our OTs, and anything else I could possibly think of that would back up the symbols I wanted on the cards. I possibly overdid things with the evidence, but I didn’t want to have to have to start the whole process all over again because I hadn’t provided enough supporting documentation.
How to apply
You can apply on the Access Card website. There is a form to fill in where you can detail the reasons why you are applying, and where you can indicate which symbols you want to appear on the card. This form includes an opportunity to upload supporting evidence at the end.
Is it worth is?
For my family, our Access Cards have absolutely been worth it. We have been able to use them enough times on days out to get free carer tickets that they have more than paid for themselves. If you go on a lot of days out, then I would thoroughly recommend looking into getting one! At £15 a card, I actually think our cards have been a steal.
