Free Access Card for people with Disabilities
Discount boost for under-18s with disabilities
A nationwide combined discount and identity card for children with a disability has become free for the first time after a groundbreaking deal between a charity and Croydon Council.
Croydon children on the council’s register of under-18s with a severe or moderate disability can now get an Access Card for free, which usually costs £15 every three years for anyone else in the country. The card offers nationwide cut-price tickets to disabled children and concessions for their companions on entertainment ranging from West End theatres to sports matches and music festivals.
The new arrangement with charity Nimbus Disability means that young people get the Access Card’s membership and related benefits for free if they join the council’s disability register. Currently there are around 1,000 children on Croydon’s register, which helps the council to plan its services and keep residents informed about its work.
The Access Card is widely accepted as proof of a disabled person’s needs, and provides access to concessions such as free companion passes and tickets. The card has symbols which confirm a person’s needs to inform providers quickly and discreetly about the support that may be required.
To qualify for the free Access Card, a child or young person must be aged 18 or under, a borough resident and be diagnosed with a permanent and substantial disability.
For more information on the scheme, visit the https://www.croydon.gov.uk/accesscard
