Having a disabled child or young person can bring additional costs, and for many families, a day out can quickly become expensive. However, many attractions, leisure venues and entertainment providers offer concessions, discounted admission or free entry for carers.
These arrangements vary from place to place, so it's always worth checking before you visit or asking at the ticket desk.
How do you show you qualify for a discount?
You may be asked to provide evidence of disability or caring responsibilities. Examples that some venues may accept include:
- A Disability Living Allowance (DLA) or Personal Independence Payment (PIP) award letter
- A Blue Badge
- A Nimbus Access Card
- A Yellow Card or local disability identification card
- A Gateway or Gateway+ Card
- Other documentation showing that support is required
It may be helpful to take photos of award notices on your phone to avoid having to take them with you.
Some families find that a disabled young person can access a child rate beyond the usual age limits, while others may be offered a free or discounted ticket for a parent, carer or personal assistant. Policies differ, but many venues offer some form of discount for families caring for a disabled child or young person.
Don't Be Afraid to Ask
If information about concessions is not shown on a website, it is still worth contacting the attraction directly. A polite conversation or email can often clarify what support may be available.
Top Tips
✅ Check the attraction's website before you travel
✅ Look for information about accessibility, concessions or companion tickets
✅ Keep evidence of disability on your phone or in a folder in case it is needed
✅ If you're unsure, contact the venue and ask what support is available
✅ Remember that the worst they can say is no!
