At Blackpool Grand Theatre, we are committed to providing the best possible experience for all our customers, including those with access requirements. To further improve how we meet your needs, we want to inform you about an important change to our Access Register arrangements.

From 1st December 2024, we will be transitioning from the Grand Theatre Access Register to the nationally recognised Nimbus ‘Access Card’ system.

The Access Card, designed to simplify the process of communicating access requirements, translates your needs into a set of easily recognised symbols. These symbols are used by venues and service providers to understand and accommodate your requirements without the need for repeated explanations.

This transition will ensure a more seamless and inclusive experience, not just at Blackpool Grand Theatre but across numerous UK venues. The Access Card also serves as a recognised proof of your needs, promoting understanding and proactive accessibility measures wherever it is presented.

What You Need to Do

To continue accessing enhanced services at Blackpool Grand Theatre, including free essential carer seats:

• Please register with Nimbus to obtain your Access Card: www.accesscard.online.
• Ensure you apply (if eligible) for the +1 symbol on your card. This symbol is essential to qualify for a free essential carer seat.
  • The +1 symbol is granted when the support you require is significant, substantial, or frequent, and directly linked to your disability-related needs.
  • Support must go beyond what can reasonably be expected from family or friends and must address specific challenges you face in accessing services.

For children, it is acknowledged that certain levels of supervision are expected as part of parenting. However, the +1 symbol is typically awarded when the support required exceeds general parental guidance and is directly related to the child’s disability.

Why This Change Is Positive

By moving to the Nimbus Access Card system, we are joining a growing network of accessible venues committed to better understanding and addressing individual access needs. While you can obtain a free card for use solely at Blackpool Grand Theatre, we encourage and highly recommend you consider the UK-wide card for just £15. This card will permit you to use it locally at many venues:

• Blackpool Pleasure Beach
• Blackpool Tower
• Blackpool Tower Circus
• The Tower Dungeon
• Sealife
• Sandcastle Waterpark
• Madame Tussauds
• Winter Gardens Blackpool
• Blackpool Zoo

We believe the Nimbus Access Card system will enhance your overall experience, offering greater flexibility and recognition both here at Blackpool Grand Theatre and beyond.

If you have any questions about this change, please don’t hesitate to contact our Box Office team on 01253 290 190 (unfortunately the dates cannot be extended).

Important note: Only the Access Card will be accepted from Friday, 6 December 2024 for free carer places.

The Blackpool Grand Theatre Access Register will no longer be supported.

Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to welcoming you soon.