I am a huge fan of the access card scheme, having got my first one a few years ago! I’ve just had to renew it, and I thought it was time I do a post about them!

What Is the Access Card?
Sometimes known as a Nimbus Card or Disability passport, it’s a plastic card, the size of a credit card, with your access requirements written on it as symbols. Venues and event organisers can use the symbols to understand your needs without you having to explain them over and over again, and without you having to send lots of scans of documents as ‘proof’ of your disability, when asking for access requirements, adjustments, discounts, carer tickets, etc.

Each card is personalised and may include symbols for things like urgent toilet access, wheelchair user, carer required, assistance dog, etc.

Why Is It So Useful?

• Reduces the Need to Explain Yourself
  No more having to ‘prove’ your disability every time you go out, or send scans of lots of different forms. Almost all venues and organisers recognise them, and there’s a whole list of places/companies on their website. Although its a UK scheme, I have also used it abroad!
• Opens Up Events, Venues, and Attractions
  Theme parks like Alton Towers and LEGOLAND, theatres, museums, music venues..the Access Card is accepted in thousands of locations. It can help you get a free companion ticket, priority entry, or a quieter space—whatever your needs are.
• Great for Hidden Disabilities
  Not every disability is visible. If you live with a condition like autism, long term mental health issues, Crohn’s disease, or chronic pain, the card helps communicate your requirements discreetly and respectfully. I’ve often felt awkward, ashamed and embarassed due to the stigma around invisible disabilities, particularly when dealing with businesses and organisations, who can be misinformed.

How Do You Get One?
They’re £15 for three years, and you apply via their website. You do have to fill in a form explaining your needs and provide supporting documents—such as a PIP award letter, GP note/diagnosis—and Nimbus will assess your application and assign appropriate symbols. BUT you don’t need to supply these again once you have it – you can just renew it!

I absolutely love my access card – I have been able to do so much more because of it! I have used it for festivals, concerts, theatre trips, exhibitions, and more! It’s made things so much simpler when it comes to booking things or emailing about access requirements too, and it is only £15, which is definitely worth it!