Money is tight. Days out are hard. And half the helpful schemes are hidden. This page rounds up the cards, passes, and services that can save you time, stress, and cashāwith clear notes on who itās for, what you get, and how to apply.
Quick Wins (start here)
CEA Card ā Free Carer at the Cinema
What it is: A card that lets a parent/carer go free with a disabled child at most UK cinemas.
Helps with: Cost, dignity (no reāexplaining needs every visit).
Usually need: DLA/PIP or similar evidence.
How to apply: Online application; small annual fee (often covered by some local charities).
Max Card ā Discounted Days Out
What it is: A discount card for families of children with additional needs.
Helps with: Cheaper entry at hundreds of attractions (theme parks, museums, farms, play centres).
Usually need: DLA/EHCP/Local Offer eligibility (varies by area).
How to get it: Often issued via your Local Authority, school SENCo, or local charities.
Access Card (+1)
What it is: A card with symbols that discreetly communicate needs (e.g., +1 carer, queueing difficulty).
Helps with: Proof for carer tickets, queue adjustments, reduced explanations.
Usually need: Evidence of disability/need when you apply.
Good for: Large venues, concerts, theme parks.
Sunflower Lanyard (Hidden Disabilities)
What it is: A free lanyard used in supermarkets, airports, and many venues to indicate a hidden disability.
Helps with: Extra time, patience, quiet support.
How to get it: Ask at customer services (most major supermarkets/airports have them) or order online.
Merlin Attractions ā Carer Tickets / Ride Access
https://www.merlinannualpass.co.uk/important-information/passholder-help/passholder-accessibility
What it is: Many Merlin parks (LEGOLAND, Alton Towers, Chessington, etc.) offer free carer tickets and Ride Access Passes for guests who canāt queue.
Helps with: Cost and queueing adjustments for sensory/anxiety needs.
Usually need: DLA/PIP/Access Card or medical evidence.
How to apply: Check each parkās Accessibility page; upload evidence in advance where required.
Services & Support You Donāt Pay For
SENDIASS (Free, Independent Advice)
What it is: Your local SEND Information, Advice and Support Service.
Helps with: EHCPs, meetings, complaints, reasonable adjustments, tribunals.
How to find it: Search āSENDIASS + your councilā.
Local Offer (Activities & Short Breaks)
What it is: Every council must publish a Local Offer listing SEND services, activities, short breaks, and grants.
Helps with: Free/lowācost clubs, respite, holiday schemes, equipment.
How to find it: Search ā[Your Council] Local Offerā.
DLA / PIP Form Help (Free)
What it is: Charities provide free guidance to complete DLA/PIP forms.
Helps with: Getting the wording right so you donāt miss out.
Who to ask: Contact, Citizens Advice, and local carersā organisations.
Carer Support & Discounts
What it is: Local carersā centres offer free advice, small grants, breaks, and discount schemes.
Helps with: Money off essentials, respite options, wellbeing support.
How to find it: Search ācarers centre + your townā.
Travel & Days Out
Disabled Personās Bus Pass (and Companion Pass)
What it is: Free or discounted bus travel for disabled passengers; many areas offer a free companion pass too.
Helps with: School runs, appointments, days out without driving.
How to apply: Via your local council website.
National Trust / English Heritage Accessibility
What it is: Free Essential Companion cards and inclusive access schemes.
Helps with: Calmer outdoor spaces; carer goes free.
How to apply: Check each organisationās accessibility page.
Airports: Special Assistance & Sunflower Lanyard
What it is: Free airport assistance through security and boarding; lanyard signals hidden needs.
How to arrange: Tell your airline at booking (or at least 48 hours before), then visit the Special Assistance desk at the airport.
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National Disability Card
More info & apply: www.nationaldisabilitycard.co.uk
A nationally recognised photo ID card for disabled people that can be used to discreetly prove disability without explaining personal details. Accepted in many attractions, shops, and events to access concessions or reasonable adjustments.
Cost: Around Ā£15 (valid for 3 years).
Tip Sheet: Applying Without Stress
- Evidence beats essays. DLA/PIP award letter, EHCP, professional lettersāattach what you have.
- Ask locally first. Many councils/charities fund fees (CEA/Access Card) or issue Max Cards directly.
- Plan for crowds. Look for quiet hours, morning slots, or SEND sessions.
- Email accessibility teams. A short, polite email before you go often unlocks smoother support.
- Keep a folder on your phone. Photos/PDFs of letters save time and reduce awkward conversations.
FAQ
Do I need a diagnosis for these?
Not always. Many schemes accept evidence of need (EHCP, professional letter) rather than a formal diagnosis.
Can I get a free carer ticket without an Access Card?
Often yesāvenues usually accept DLA/PIP proof or their own online forms. The Access Card just makes it easier.
Is Max Card nationwide?
Coverage varies by area. If your council doesnāt issue it, ask local charitiesāthey sometimes can.
Keep This Page Handy
Weāll update this list regularly. If you find a great free (or lowācost) scheme for SEND families, tell us and weāll add it.
Need help wording emails or applications?
Head to our Template Letters page for quick copyāandāpaste messages to venues, schools, and councils.
More support: AskEllie helps with EHCPs, Section 19, transport, appeals and moreāfree tools built by SEND parents, for SEND parents.
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