Days out / discounts
The purpose of this page is to share free or discounted days out and activities that Type 1 diabetics qualify for. If you are aware of anything else not shown on the page please email any further suggestions to hello@type1diabetestips.com so that we can update this page to make it as useful as possible.
CEA Card
The CEA Card is a national card scheme developed for UK cinemas by the UK Cinema Association (UKCA).
The CEA Card entitles you to ONE free ticket for someone to accompany you to the cinema to provide the assistance you may need during your visit. To get the free ticket, you will need to purchase a full price ticket for yourself for the same performance of the same film in the same auditorium.
You can apply for a CEA Card here.
Diggerland
Disabled Guests are entitled to a free carer ticket. Disabled visitors to Diggerland pay the same entry rate as anyone else, but each disabled visitor may bring in one carer/helper free of charge.
The carer/helper may use the rides and drives if they wish to do so. Please note that this offer is only valid in conjunction with payment for a full price entry ticket (purchased directly through Diggerland) or with the purchase of prepaid on-line entry tickets (purchased directly through Diggerland). It is not valid in conjunction with any special voucher offers, e.g. 2 for 1 or 3 for 2 special discount vouchers, tickets through any of our affiliated agencies or Tesco Clubcard Diggerland Tokens.
Diggerland does not operate any “fast track” or preferential queuing service for disabled visitors.
You need to book a Standard/OAP ticket as appropriate and bring proof of entitlement to Diggerland Admissions in order for them to issue the free carer ticket. Such proof includes Disability Living Allowance (DLA) letter, Personal Independence Payment (PIP) letter or an NHS letter. For more information visit the Diggerland website.
English Heritage
English Heritage take equality very seriously, and provide free site access for assisting companions of a disabled Member or visitor.
English Heritage don’t ask for any proof of disability, and the companion doesn’t have to be a registered carer, nor do they have to be the same person each time you visit.
If you’d like a letter of authority giving your assisting companions free access, please contact English Heritage on 0370 333 1182. More information is available on the English Heritage website.
Max Card
The Max Card is the UK’s leading discount card for foster families and families of children with additional needs. Families can use their Max Card at venues across the UK to get free or discounted admission.
The scheme is designed to help families save money on great days out at castles, zoos, bowling alleys, trampoline parks and many more.
Max Card aim to provide a sense of community through stimulating learning experiences and enjoyable days out for everyone.
Max Card work with Local Authorities and selected charities, who administer the cards to eligible families in their areas. Find out if your Local Authority is on board here.
Merlin’s Magic Wand
Merlin’s Magic Wand is a worldwide charity for children, aiming to provide free magical experiences for those who are seriously ill, disabled or facing adversity and they say “On our magical days out, families have a chance to create long-lasting memories and take valuable time out from their stressful daily routine.”
The Charity provide tickets and fund travel grants to families to enjoy their day at a Merlin Entertainments’ attractions, such as LEGOLAND Resort® theme parks, SEA LIFE Centres, Warwick Castle and Madame Tussauds.
Created by the Merlin Entertainments Group,
Merlin’s Magic Wand is a UK charitable trust, run by a Board of Trustees.
The board manages the funds and makes awards to good causes in the countries in which Merlin operates.
Due to a high demand for tickets they only accept applications from those families/children/households that they have not previously supported.
National Trust Essential Companion card
The Essential Companion card makes it simple to bring one or two carers or companions with you, free of charge. Just show the card when you arrive, and your carer(s) or companion(s) won’t need to pay an entry fee.
It’s in your name so you can bring whomever you like, but even if you don’t have an Essential Companion card, you can still bring carers or companions free – the card just makes it quicker and simpler for you.
To order a card you can call, email or write using details mid way down the page on the National Trust website.
Please email any further suggestions to hello@type1diabetestips.com