Carers Support Service

Who is a Carer?

A carer is someone who regularly provides a substantial amount of care to a family member, friend or neighbour who is ill, disabled or is an older person.

A carer could be:

A young person under 18 looking after a parent/brother/sister;
Looking after a relative with a disability;
The parent of a child with special needs;
A friend or relative looking after an older person

Meet the Team

Geraldine McLaughlin

Carers Coordinator

Rossabbey Office
Abbey Street, Londonderry, BT48 9DN

078 1015 6551
028 7135 5023
GeraldineAnn.McLaughlin@westerntrust.hscni.net

Caroline Rooney

Team Administrator
2 Coleshill Road
Enniskillen
BT74 7HG
0286634 4217
Caroline.Rooney@Westerntrust.hscni.net

Gabrielle McAloon

Carers Development Worker

2 Coleshill Road, Enniskillen, BT74 7HG

028 6634 4163

Gabrielle.McAloon@westerntrust.hscni.net
Carers Support Service Information | ISL and BSL

Carers Support Information | ISL

Carers Information Support | BSL
Carers Handbook and Further Resources

Download the Carers Support information leaflet:

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You do not have to be in receipt of Carers Allowance to be a carer. Some carers do not qualify for this benefit. For more information please download the Carers Allowance Factsheet.

Download the Western Trust Carers Handbook: an essential source of help and support for people who are looking after someone.
Carers Activities Programme

The Carers Support Team run a number of online and in-person programmes for Carers. For up to date information on what is currently available check out the most recent Carers Newsletter or contact the Carers Support Team on (028) 7135 5023
Carers Support Needs Assessment

As a carer who provides regular and substantial care, you are eligible for a support needs assessment. This is an opportunity for you to sit down with a member of staff and discuss the impact of the caring role on all aspects of your life.

Carer support needs assessments are confidential and the Trust will seek your consent around who information can be shared with, if appropriate in order to agree supports for you. This may be specialist information, or a referral to a support group.

The outcome of the assessment will be discussed to see if Social Services or another agency can meet your needs. Any needs that are not met will be recorded as evidence of services that we cannot provide.

Please see the Carers Handbook for further information.
Carers Group Cash Grants

Any Carers group that is constituted and meets on a regular basis (at least bi-monthly) can apply for up to £500. The money can be used for any activities provide support for Carers that will benefit their health and well-being. The funding cannot be used for activities for the persons being cared for. The grant is normally open from September until early December for applications. To find out more contact the Carers Support Team 028 6634 4163 or 028 7135 5023
Carers Walking Groups
The Carers Support Team run three Carers Walking Groups.
- Tuesday – Omagh, usually meet at the Leisure Centre at 10.15 am
- Thursday – Londonderry, usually meet at Sainsbury’s at 11.00 am
- Friday – Fermanagh, meet at Community Services, Coleshill, Enniskillen at 11.30 am
To find out more contact the Carers Support Team 028 6634 4163 or 028 7135 5023

Times and venues may vary. Please contact a member of the team ahead of time.
Concessions and Discount for Carers in Northern Ireland
Introduction

This booklet has been compiled to inform carers of concessions and discounts that may be available to them throughout Northern Ireland.

Western Health & Social Care Trust provide a Carer ID Card to all who register as a Carer with the Trust. This card may assist entry to a variety of places, as evidence of current carer status. However, the Carer Support Service recommend that the carer contacts the venue or attraction before booking to ensure the necessary documentation is at hand on entry as venues ask for different forms of evidence as set out in this booklet.

The Carer ID Card issued by the Trust identifies the person as an unpaid carer who provides substantial support to a family member or friend who is frail, ill or has a disability.

Any queries regarding access to a venue or attraction should be made directly to the organisation.

It is important for carers to take care of their own health and wellbeing while continuing to care. The Carer Support Service would encourage carers to take time to do things that they enjoy if they can. It is also important to spend time quality time with family and friends. This booklet provides ideas and suggestions of places to visit where carers can avail of concessions and discounts.

Please let us know of any other venues or attractions that offer concessions and discounts to carers that can be included in the booklet.

Carer Support Service

Address: 2 Coleshill Road, Enniskillen, BT74 7HG

Tel: (028) 6634 4217

Email: carers.support1@westerntrust.hscni.net

Discount Cards

Autism NI Card

Website: www.autismni.org

Carers can apply to become a member of Autism NI for £20 a year or £5 a year if you are in receipt of benefits. To apply, access an application form by following the above website link and click on ‘become a member’. Forms can be filled in online, or forms returned by post to:

Autism NI

Donard, Knockbracken Healthcare Park, Saintfield Road, Belfast BT8 8BH

There is also an option to ring to complete the membership application by phoning 028 9040 1729 (option 1). Just to note that members also have access to free family support workshops and priority information on all Autism NI activities, events and training courses.

Cinema Exhibitors’ Association (CEA) Card

Website: www.ceacard.co.uk

Phone: 01244 526 016

Address: CEA Card, PO BOX 199 Deeside CH5 9BW

This card allows free access for a carer accompanying a disabled person to the cinema. The card costs £6, has unlimited use and lasts one year. The person applying must be in receipt of Disability Living Allowance (DLA), Attendance Allowance (AA), Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP), Severely Sight Impaired Registration or Sight Impaired Registration.

For full details and application form and the list of the 90% cinemas who accept the CEA Card, go to www.ceacard.co.uk. The frequently asked questions section is useful for all queries.

Carers Card UK

Website: www.carerscarduk.co.uk

This private company, not connected with the Health and Social Care system, offers a Carers Card UK which costs £8 for a period of two years. This includes a free app that provides access to hundreds of online discounts, plus additional features, tools and services designed to support the carer in their caring role. The application is completed online. Carers will be asked a series of questions which will enable the company to validate their suitability for the card.

To find out more see their website www.carerscarduk.co.uk

Family Fund extra

Website: www.familyfund.org.uk

We are the UK’s largest grant-making charity for families raising a disabled or seriously ill child, on a low income. Giving grants to families on a low income for items they may not otherwise be able to afford. For example family breaks, digital equipment, white goods, clothing, bedding, furniture and play equipment.

National Trust Regional Properties

Website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Phone: 0344 800 1895

Address: PO Box 574, Manvers, Rotherham, South Yorkshire S63 3FH

The Essential Companion card makes it easy to bring one or two carers or companions with the cared for person, free of charge. When at a National Trust Property, show the card upon arrival to gain free entry. Please note, the cared for person still needs to pay their own entry unless they are a National Trust member. The card is in the cared for person’s name so they can bring whoever they like as their Essential Companion. Call Supporter Services Centre 0344 800 1895 or email enquiries@nationaltrust.org.uk

Castle Ward

Website: castleward@nationaltrust.org.uk

Phone: 028 4488 1204

Address: Strangford, Downpatrick BT30 7BA

Mount Stewart:

Website: mountstewart@nationaltrust.org.uk

Phone: 028 4278 8387

Address: Portaferry Road, Newtownards BT22 2AD

Florence Court:

Website: florencecourt@nationaltrust.org.uk

Phone: 028 6634 8249

Address: Marble Arch Road, Enniskillen BT92 1DB

The Argory:

Website: argory@nationaltrust.org.uk

Phone: 028 8778 4753

Address: 144 Derrycaw Road, Moy, Dungannon BT71 6NA

Rowallane Garden:

Website: rowallane@nationaltrust.org.uk

Phone: 028 9751 0131

Address: Crossgar Road, Saintfield BT24 7LH

Ardress House:

Website: ardress@nationaltrust.org.uk

Phone: 028 8778 4753

Address: 64 Ardress Road, Annaghmore, Portadown BT62 1SQ

Castle Coole:

Website: castlecoole@nationaltrust.org.uk

Phone: 028 6632 2690

Address: Enniskillen BT74 6JY

Crom:

Website: crom@nationaltrust.org.uk

Phone: 028 6773 8118

Address: Upper Lough Erne, Newtownbutler BT92 8AJ

Springhill:

Website: springhill@nationaltrust.org.uk

Phone: 028 8674 8210

Address: 20 Springhill Road, Moneymore, Magherafelt BT45 7NQ

Wellbrook Beetling mill:

Website: wellbrook@nationaltrust.org.uk

Phone: 028 8674 8210

Address: 20 Wellbrook Road, Corkhill, Cookstown BT80 9RY

Derrymore House:

Website: derrymore@nationaltrust.org.uk

Phone: 028 8778 4753

Address: Camlough Road, Bessbrook, Newry BT35 7EF

Gray’s Printing Press:

Website: grays@nationaltrust.org.uk

Phone: 028 8674 8210

Address: 49 Main Street, Strabane BT82 8AU

Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne:

Website: mussendentemple@nationaltrust.org.uk

Phone: 028 7084 8728

Address: Mussenden Road, Castlerock BT51 4RP

Patterson’s Spade Mill:

Website: pattersons@nationaltrust.org.uk

Phone: 028 9443 3619

Address: 751 Antrim Road, Templepatrick BT30 0AP

Venues in County Down

The Ark Farm

Website: www.thearkopenfarm.co.uk

Phone: 028 9182 0445

Address: 296A Bangor Road, Newtownards BT23 7PH

There is discounted entry of £2 for an essential carer when accompanying a full price adult or child ticket only. The Farm will accept the Carer ID Card as proof of carer.

Castle Espie, Comber

Phone: 028 9187 4146

Address: 78 Ballydrain Road, Co Down BT23 6EA

Carers assisting disabled visitors can avail of free access. Let reception know upon arrival.

Down Arts Centre

Website: www.visitmournemountains.co.uk/arts/down-arts-centre

Phone: 0330 137 4014

Address: 2-6 Irish Street, Downpatrick BT30 6BP

The Arts Centre offer a Carer Ticket, which is a complimentary ticket for the carer to accommodate a disabled person. This can be done in person by calling in to Down Arts Centre or by phoning the Box Office 0330 137 4014. If the carer outlines the requirements of the disabled person, so that the Arts Centre make their experience of attending a performance as accessible and as pleasant as possible, that will suffice.

Down Royal Racecourse

Website: www.downroyal.com

Phone: 028 9262 1256

Address: Maze, Lisburn BT27 5RW

Carers can avail free admission when accompanying a disabled person. Phone Down Royal to let them know and they will post out tickets. They will also ask for car registration details to allow parking in the disabled bay closest to the Turnstiles. If any hospitality is booked that includes food, then the value of the General Admission is removed from the total cost and difference will still need to be paid.

Exploris Aquarium and Seal Sanctuary

Website: www.explorisni.com

Phone: 028 4272 8062

Address: The Rope Walk, Castle Street, Portaferry BT22 1NZ

Exploris provide free admission to carers when accompanying a cared for person. Carers need to show evidence at the entrance such as the Trust Carer ID Card, or a letter of Carer Allowance entitlement or an Autism NI card. If booking online, book tickets for other members of the group. There is no option to book a carer ticket, just show evidence on arrival.

Hillsborough Castle & Gardens

Website: www.hrp.org.uk

Phone: 0333 320 6000

Address: Hillsborough, BT26 6TY

Disabled visitors can bring an extra person free of charge but this can’t be pre-booked. Proof of need needs to be shown at the Ticket Desk. Proof of eligibility includes a PIP Letter, Blue Badge, Sunflower Pass. Book tickets for everyone who is visiting except the carer. 27 parking spaces are available on site for Blue Badge holders.

Island Arts Centre

Website: www.islandartscentre.com

Phone: 028 9244 7452

Address: The Island, Lisburn BT27 4RL

The Arts Centre offers the Buddy Card Scheme. Please see page 17 for details.

Montalto Estate

Website: www.montaltoestate.com

Phone: 028 9756 6100

Address: Spa Road, Ballynahinch BT24 8PT

Carers accompanying the cared for person can avail of free admission to the estate. Health Trust Carer ID Cards are accepted as proof of carer.

Seaforde Gardens and Butterfly House

Website: www.seafordegardens.com

Phone: 028 4481 1225

Address: Seaforde, County Down BT30 8PG

This facility offers a free carer ticket when accompanying the cared for person. The carer is required to bring evidence such as a DLA Entitlement letter, carer allowance letter, letter from a GP or therapist or an Autism NI card.

Ulster Folk and Transport Museum

Website: www.ulsterfolkmuseum.org

Phone: 028 9042 8428

Address: 153 Bangor Road, Cultra, Holywood BT18 0EU

Carers can avail of free admission. When booking online, chose the carer option in the ticket section and bring the Trust Carer ID Card to show at the ticket office.

Game of Thrones Studio Tour

Website: www.gameofthronesstudiotour.com

Phone: 028 4046 4777

Address: The Boulevard, Banbridge BT32 4LF

The attraction provides one free carer ticket per paying disabled visitor aged 16+. Carer tickets can only be booked by contacting the Visitor Services Team in advance of the visit. Proof of carer status includes a letter or notice of entitlement for DLA or PIP, a blue parking badge or Freedom Pass or a DID card or Access card. Contact using the phone number above or email access@gameofthronesstudiotour.com

Leisure Centres

Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council

Buddy Card Scheme

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council offers a ‘Buddy Card’ Scheme. The disabled person is required to make the relevant payment and their Buddy will have free access. The disabled person does not have to bring the same Buddy on each visit. The Buddy Card Scheme is available to any adult or child with a disability. The buddy Card costs £5 and is valid for 3 years. Call in to the leisure facility for an application form or complete on the centre website. There is an acceptance criteria form that needs to be completed by a doctor, nurse, social worker, other health professional or relevant voluntary/charity worker.

Lagan Valley Leisureplex

Website: www.theleisureplex.com

Phone: 028 9267 2121

Address: 18 Lisburn Leisure Park, Lisburn BT28 1LP

Ards and North Down City Council

Ards and North Down City Council runs a BuddyCard scheme for service users with a disability who requires a carer to help them to use the centre facilities. To apply for a BuddyCard, visit the Council’s website at www.ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk or phone 0300 013 3333. The card will be issued to the service user who must present it at reception for their carer to accompany them free of charge. Carers must stay with the service user throughout the duration of a visit and should not leave their service user unattended. Carers may accompany the BuddyCard holder but not use:
- the gyms
- swimming pools – the carer is permitted to enter the water to assist
- fitness classes
- Spa at Ards and Health Suite at Comber
Carers who want to take part in any of the activities noted above must purchase a ticket for which the concession rate will apply.

Leisure centres in Ards and North Down include:

Bangor Aurora Aquatic and Leisure Complex

Website: www.bangoraurora.com

Phone: 028 9127 0271

Address: 3 Valentine Road, Bangor BT20 4TH

Ards Blair Mayne Wellbeing and Leisure Complex

Website: www.leisureardsandnorthdown.com/centres/ards

Phone: 028 9181 2837

Address: 1 Dairy Hall Lane, Newtownards BT23 4DB

Greater Belfast area

Belfast Zoological Gardens

Website: www.belfastcity.gov.uk/zoo/home

Phone: 028 9077 6277

Address: Antrim Road, Belfast BT36 7PN

Visitors paying standard admission price who require special assistance are offered free admission for one accompanying carer. To gain free carers admission, the carer must provide proof (in the form of documentation) to show that they are in receipt of carer’s allowance, a doctor’s letter or other relevant paperwork. Alternatively, the visitor who needs a carer can provide evidence of requiring a carer.

Crumlin Road Gaol Visitor Attraction & Conference Centre

Website: www.crumlinroadgaol.com

Phone: 028 9074 1500

Address: 53-55 Crumlin Road, Belfast BT14 6ST

The Gaol offers carers free entry for the Self-Guided Crumlin Road Gaol Experience, this is on a 1-1 basis. Carers cannot book online yet, just let them know you are a carer at the Gaol entrance. An online booking platform will soon be available in cooperation with Nimbus disability.

Dundonald Ice Bowl

Website: www.theicebowl.com

Phone: 028 9080 9100

Address: 111 Old Dundonald Road, Belfast BT16 1XT

The Facility recognises the Buddy Card. The Buddy Card Scheme makes it easier for disabled persons to use the facility. The Scheme is available to any adult or child with a disability. The person providing assistance or ‘buddy’ will have free access when accompanying the disabled person (who needs to make the relevant payment). The Buddy scheme costs £5 to join and the carer needs to complete a form, including a section to be filled in by a health professional such as a GP or social worker. The carer is required to provide a passport sized photo. The application form can be found at www.theicebowl.com/asd-friendly/buddy-card and click on the application form link. A hard copy can also be collected from the Ice Bowl facility. The Ice Bowl also offer inclusive skating sessions, currently £8 per session with one carer going free. See their website for details in the Inclusive Skating Session section.

Grand Opera House, Belfast

Website: www.goh.co.uk

Phone: 028 9024 1919

Address: Great Victoria Street, Belfast BT2 7HR

The Grand Opera House operates an Access for All Membership Scheme. This is open to all customers with access needs and is free to join. As part of the Scheme, if a person requires supervision or assistance during a visit to the theatre, they could be eligible for a complimentary Essential Companion ticket. The carer must be over 18 and be able to provide the cared for person with assistance to evacuate the building in the event of an emergency. The carer must be able to help with access to the theatre and its facilities and remain with the cared for person to ensure wellbeing and comfort. These tickets must be requested at the time of the booking. The membership is valid for 2 years and can be renewed. The person requesting the complimentary Companion Ticket should be in receipt of one of the following:
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA) or Attendance Allowance (AA)
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Certificate of Visual Impairment
- Disabled SmartPass / Blue Badge holder (photographic side)
- Employment and Support Allowance (ESA).
- Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit (IIDB)
- Constant Attendance Allowance
- Armed Forces Compensation Scheme (Guaranteed Income Payment)
- Cred – Ability Card
- Medical Authorisation – contact the box office for more details
**Provide photocopy evidence of one or more of the above to support the application. The documentation should be dated within the last 12 months and not have expired.

There are a number of ways to join – the form can be download directly online by visiting: Access For All Scheme | Grand Opera House (goh.co.uk). The Access for All form can be completed, and returned by email with the relevant supporting documents to: boxofficemanagers@goh.co.uk or The Grand Opera House can arrange to a have a paper application posted to an address of the person’s choosing, please contact them at 028 9024 1919.

Irish Football Association

Website: www.irishfa.com

Phone: 028 9066 9458

Address: Donegall Avenue, Belfast BT12 6LU

When a complimentary essential companion ticket is required to support a cared for person to attend an event, Accessible Tickets are available via an application form. The cared for person must be largely dependent upon a wheelchair and able to provide proof in the form of a doctors/hospital letter or prove a disability benefit, such as PIP or DLA. Please note: Blue Accessible Parking badges are not accepted.

An essential companion must be capable of supporting the needs of the accessible ticket holder throughout the fixture and in the event of an emergency and therefore the essential companion should not be a junior.

For any queries or to discuss individual requirements, contact a Disability Access Officer at: dao@irishfa.com or tickets@irishfa.com

Lyric Theatre, Belfast

Website: www.lyrictheatre.co.uk

Phone: 028 9038 1081

Address: 55 Ridgeway Street, Belfast BT9 5FB

Any patron who may require additional support to attend a performance is entitled to a free essential carer’s ticket for an accompanying guest. This is limited to one carer per patron. The Lyric Theatre do not require proof to be provided, however, the ticket cannot be purchased online, only by contacting the Box Office on 028 9038 1081. Lines are open 10am-5pm daily.

SSE Arena

Phone: 028 9073 9074

Address: Customer Services, 2 Queens Quay, Belfast BT3 9QQ

Essential Companion Tickets

SSE offer a number of Essential Companion tickets at a discount or no additional cost. This is eligible to those who meet the criteria and would be unable to attend an event without the support of another person, who the essential companion can assist in the event of an emergency. These tickets need to be applied for via Ticketmaster’s online booking, and required evidence submitted to Ticketmaster ahead of the event. This information can be uploaded to a Ticketmaster account in advance to cover any events for the following 2 years. Visit www.ticketmaster.ie and follow the how-to guide to register with Ticketmaster’s accessible bookers database.

The Free Companion Policy may not be applicable for every event. Below is a list of documents they may accept when considering allocating a complimentary ticket:
- Letter from a medical professional, including a doctor’s note or a letter from an occupational therapist
- Carers Allowance
- Letter or report from an aural specialist confirming that hearing loss has been recorded at 70-95 dBHL or worse
- Blind or partially sighted registration certificate from an ophthalmic surgeon or letter from the NCBI or similar
- A personal letter from the GP, community nurse or social worker
- Benefit award letters
- Copy of a blue badge (they need to see both sides)
Belfast Giants Essential Companion Tickets

Essential Companion tickets are available at no additional cost for all Belfast Giants games at The SSE Arena. The cared for person can purchase tickets via www.ticketmaster.ie and then submit evidence of eligibility for an Essential Companion ticket. Ticketmaster will then contact the person within 72 hours of purchase to request submitted evidence (please note, The SSE Arena Belfast follows criteria provided by Attitude is Everything of required evidence).

Wheelchair Accessible Areas

Wheelchair spaces are available to select online via Ticketmaster www.ticketmaster.ie and tickets for other access requests such as for visual or hearing impaired people can be seen by clicking the accessible (♿️) symbol on the individual event page.

Streamvale Open Farm

Website: www.streamvale.com

Phone: 028 9048 3244

Address: 38 Ballyhanwood Road, Belfast BT5 7SN

Carer entry is £2 with proof of ID. The carer’s ID required includes a DLA letter, doctor’s letter or Carers Allowance letter

The Mac Belfast

Website: www.themaclive.com

Phone: 028 9023 5053

Address: 10 Exchange Street, West Belfast BT1 2NJ

Sign up to The Mac’s Access Register. Membership is free and needs to be renewed annually. Signing up means no repeat access needs are required to be made every time there is a booking. To join the Access Register, complete the online form at www.themaclive.com and click into the Accessible Information section. The accompanying carer will receive a complimentary ticket to accessible events.

Titanic Belfast

Website: www.titanicbelfast.com

Phone: 028 9076 6386

Address: 1 Olympic Way, Queen’s Road, Titanic Quarter, Belfast BT3 9EP

Titanic Belfast offers a free carer ticket to any paying customer who requires essential assistance to visit the attraction. Tickets can be booked online (includes entrance to SS Nomadic) at www.titanticbelfast.com Carer proof needs to be provided on arrival. Examples of carer proof include:
- Health and Social Care Trust Carer ID Card
- Blue Badge
- Freedom Pass
- DLA Letter
- PIP Letter
Ulster Rugby

Website: tickets@ulsterrugby.com

Phone: 028 9049 3222 option 2

Address: Ravenhill Rugby Grounds, 85 Ravenhill Park, Belfast BT6 0DG

If someone needs the assistance of a carer, Ulster Rugby can offer a complimentary ticket to the carer. All season ticket holders who have registered their carer with Ulster Rugby will have the complimentary carer ticket reserved within their account. Contact Ulster Rugby for more information at tickets@ulsterrugby.com or phone 028 9049 3222 option 2.

Waterfront Hall and Ulster Hall

Website: www.waterfront.co.uk

Phone: 028 9033 4455

Address: 2 Lanyon Place, Belfast BT1 3WH

For those requiring supervision or assistance, carers may be eligible for a complimentary Essential Companion or Carer Ticket. The companion must be over 18 years of age and be able to assist in the event of an evacuation. All bookings must be made under an account belonging to the customer who requires the Essential Companion and they will not honour any requests for Essential Companion tickets to be added to alternative accounts.

The Waterfront accept a copy of one of the following documents to support a request for carer tickets:
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA) or Attendance Allowance (AA)
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Certificate of Visual Impairment
- Disabled SmartPass / Blue Badge holder
- Employment and Support Allowance (ESA).
- Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit (IIDB)
- Constant Attendance Allowance
- Armed Forces Compensation Scheme (Guaranteed Income Payment)
- Cred – Ability Card
- Medical Authorisation
There are limited Essential Companion tickets available for events within the venues.

To request an Essential Companion or Carer Ticket, submit an Accessibility Booking Form at www.waterfront.co.uk under heading ABOUT and click into Contact Us. The form can be completed in this section and the team will be in contact via email.

W5

Website: www.w5online.co.uk

Phone: 028 9046 7700

Address: 2 Queens Quay, Belfast BT3 9QQ

W5 offers an essential aid/carer ticket free of charge. Inform a staff member this criterion is met on arrival or when booking in advance. Carers will be asked to provide evidence such as:
- Front page of DLA letter
- Front page of AA letter
- Front page of PIP letter
- Nimbus Access Card
- Registration Card for charitable organisations which supports disability
Leisure Centres

Belfast City Council

Website: www.better.org.uk/memberships

All leisure centres across the city are run under the ‘Better’ brand. Better offer concessionary memberships to those receiving certain benefits including Carers Allowance (dated within 1 year). Carers can apply online or visit a local centre. This membership gives access to gyms, swimming pools and fitness classes. Most of the concessionary membership packages are only valid during off-peak hours. The cost of a concessionary membership is £21.45 per month.

Centres are Avoniel Leisure Centre, Andersonstown Leisure Centre, Ballysillan Leisure Centre, Belvior Activity Centre, Better Gym Belfast, Better Gym Connswater, Brook Leisure Centre, Falls Leisure Centre, Girdwood Community Hub, Grove Wellbeing Centre, Indoor Tennis Centre and Ozone Complex, Lisnasharragh Leisure Centre, Olympia Leisure Centre, Shankill Leisure Centre, Templemore Baths and Whiterock Leisure Centre.

Venues in County Antrim

Theatre at the Mill

Website: www.thetheatreatthemill.com

Phone: 0300 123 7788

Address: Mossley Mill, Carnmoney Road North, Newtownabbey BT36 5QA

If a person has a disability that requires a companion, the companion may attend free of charge or at a discounted rate (subject to concessionary rates agreed with promoter). Registration with the box office must be completed in advance. The access form can be found on the website in the Accessibility section.

Leisure Centres

Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council

Website: www.antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/leisure-centres/memberships/cincessions/

Phone: 0300 123 1580

MORE Scheme

Carers can avail of a concession membership rate at £19 per month. A carer can sign up via the website and the membership entitles the carer to unlimited access to the fitness suites, swimming pools, health suites, fitness classes etc. There is a requirement that a carers card is provided to qualify for the reduced membership rate. The council will email the carer directly the day after they sign up to obtain a copy of their carer card.

Venues in County Armagh

Armagh Planetarium

Website: www.armagh.space

Phone: 028 3752 3689

Address: College Hill, Armagh BT61 9DB

The Planetarium offers a free ticket to an accompanying carer. These tickets can be booked alongside all other tickets on the website. Supporting documentation for this includes a Carer ID Card, a blue badge, award notice of carers allowance or Attendance Allowance or PIP documentation.

Venues in County Fermanagh

Marble Arch Caves

Website: www.marblearchcaves.co.uk

Phone: 028 6632 1815

Address: 43 Marlbank Road, Legnabrocky, Florencecourt BT92 1EW

Personal Assistance Support Scheme (PASS) is available for people who have a disability who require the assistance of a companion in order to attend the Marble Arch Caves and are entitled to a complimentary ticket for their companion.

The person with a disability must first register their details with the Marble Arch Caves before the personal assistance support scheme can be availed of, registration form can be accessed via the link below or contact our Customer Service Team on +0044 (0)28 6632 1815 or email mac@fermanaghomagh.com.

https://marblearchcaves.co.uk/site/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/PASS-Scheme-Form-2023.docx

The complimentary ticket can only be booked by phone or in person and by referencing your Scheme membership number. If a designated car parking space is required please reserve a space when booking.

The Ardhowen Theatre

Website: www.ardhowen.com

Phone: 028 6632 5440

Address: 97 Dublin Road, Derrychara, Enniskillen BT74 6FZ ·

Personal Assistance Support Scheme (PASS) is available for people who have a disability and who require the assistance of a companion in order to attend the venue are entitled to a complimentary ticket for their companion. The person with a disability must first register their details with the Ardhowen before the personal assistance support scheme can be availed of, please contact Box Office for a registration form. If a designated car parking space is required please reserve a space when booking.

For more information or assistance please contact Box Office on 028 66325440

Enniskillen Castle

Website: www.enniskillencastle.co.uk

Phone: 028 6632 5000

Address: Wellington Road, Enniskillen BT74 7HL

Personal Assistance Support Scheme (PASS) is available for people who have a disability who require the assistance of a companion in order to visit Enniskillen Castle Museums and are entitled to a complimentary ticket for their companion. The person with a disability must first register their details with the Fermanagh & Omagh District PASS before availing of the service. A registration form can be accessed via the link below or by contacting our Customer Service Team at castle@fermanaghomagh.com Some programmed events have been brought in from an independent organisation. Personal Assistance Support Scheme tickets may be limited as the Promoters of these events have the right to determine the numbers available at each occasion. Enniskillen Castle Museums will allocate PASS Tickets on a first-come-first-served basis until the maximum number allocated is reached.

Fermanagh Fun Farm

Website: www.fermanaghfunfarm.com

Phone: 02866385060

Address: 4 Slate Quarry Lane, Enniskillen BT94 5EE

With ID carers can enter the farm for free with each paying child / adult needing assistance.

Share Discovery Village

Website: www.sharevillage.org

Phone: 028 6772 2122

Address: 221 Lisnaskea Rd, Lisnaskea, Enniskillen BT92 0JZ

Offer a free entry for a carer with every paid booking into the leisure suite.

More information on the leisure suite can be found by following the link below

www.sharevillage.org/leisure-suite-swimming-pool-enniskillen

Venues in County Tyrone

Omagh Leisure Centre

Website: www.fermanaghomagh.com/services/health-wellbeing/leisure-complexes/omagh-leisure-complex/

Phone: 028 8224 6711

Address: Old Mountfield Road, Omagh BT79 7EG

Omagh Leisure Complex operates a Buddy Card System Policy and as such the necessary companion, or carer of a disabled visitor will be admitted free of charge when accompanying a fully paying disabled visitor/user. A Buddy Card is made out in the name of the disabled person, not the companion, so there is no restriction to taking the same person on each visit.

To request a Buddy Card please telephone 028 82246711 or email olcinfo@fermanaghomagh.com. The admission policy admits the necessary companion, or carer, of a disabled visitor free of charge, on request, while the normal membership, or admission fee, applies to the disabled visitor.

Alley Theatre Strabane

Website: www.alley-theatre.com

Phone: 028 7138 4444

Address: 1A Railway St, Strabane BT82 8EF

Access for All scheme has been designed for people with physical/sensory or cognitive disabilities, and is a practical display of The Alley Theatre’s belief that there should be equal access to our theatre for everyone. Its purpose is to help us to provide you with the best possible service – each time you book we will store details of your booking requirements for the future, helping us to find appropriate seating for you quickly and easily.

It is free to join and we can keep you up to date on offers and information about forthcoming shows, should you chose to opt in to this service. You can update us at any time of any changes to your access requirements by contacting our Box Office, who will update your membership records. Your membership will be valid for one year, after which we will contact you to renew and update us of any changes. To join the scheme, please contact the Box Office.

Strule Arts Centre

Website: www.struleartscentre.co.uk

Phone: 028 8224 7831

Address: Townhall Square, Omagh BT78 1BL

Personal Assistance Support Scheme (PASS) is available for people who have a disability and who require the assistance of a companion in order to attend the venue are entitled to a complimentary ticket for their companion. The person with a disability must first register their details with Strule Arts Centre before the personal assistance support scheme can be availed of, please contact Box Office for a registration form. If a designated car parking space is required please reserve a space when booking. For more information or assistance please contact Box Office on 028 8224 78731

https://www.fermanaghomagh.com/app/uploads/2015/04/PASS-Scheme-Form-Strule-Arts-Centre.pdf

Ulster American Folk Park

Website: www.ulsteramericanfolkpark.org

Phone: 028 8224 3292

Address: 2 Mellon Road, Omagh BT78 5QU

Carers can avail of free admission. When booking online, chose the carer option in the ticket section and bring some form of carer documentation to show at the ticket office.

Venues in County Derry/Londonderry

Tower Museum

Website: www.towermuseumcollections.com

Phone: 028 7137 2411

Address: Union Hall Place, Londonderry BT48 6LU

The Booking Office request that carers contact them when making a booking to inform them that they will be accompanying a person who requires the assistance of a carer. The carer will then not be charged on arrival.

Millennium Forum

Website: www.millenniumforum.co.uk

Phone: 028 7126 4455

Address: Newmarket Street, Londonderry BT48 6EB

For some shows at the Millennium Forum we offer concessionary tickets. This information changes on a show by show basis. All info is on our website www.millenniumforum.co.uk.

In addition to this they have an Access Membership Scheme which allows complimentary access to carer’s of people with disabilities if attending an event with them. To join the scheme, you will need to complete a form and return to the Box Office contact Phone: +44 (0)28 7126 4455 or Email: boxoffice@millenniumforum.co.uk

Other Venues in Ireland

Dublin Zoo

Website:www.dublinzoo.ie

Phone: +353 (0)1 4748900

Address: Phoenix Park, Dublin 8 D08 AC98

Dublin Zoo provides free entry for carers and reduced entry fee for an adult or child with additional needs. A free carers ticket can only be given when an additional needs ticket is purchased. Relevant ID and documentation can be an Autism card, an associated membership card or GP or consultant letter which confirms the visitor is unable to visit Dublin Zoo independently without the aid of a carer or mobility aid.

Funtasia Theme Park

Website: www.funtasia.ie

Phone: +353 41 989 8000

Address: Unit 1 Donare Road Industrial Estate, Lagavooren, Drogheda, Co Lough A92 EVH6

The carer and the person being cared for gets a €2 discount off the Waterpark and activities such as Bowling, Play Area, Sky climb, Crazy Golf. The carer must have proof of being the individual’s carer such as a carer card. This discount applies on a 1 to 1 ratio.

Emerald Park

Website: www.emeraldpark.ie

Phone: +353 (0)1 8351999

Address: Kilbrew, Ashbourne, County Meath A84 EA02

The park offers a reduced ticket rate for visitors with additional needs and free entry for an accompanying carer. Supporting documentation needs to be produced on arrival and this includes:
- Named associated membership card for an additional need
- GP letter to state an additional need with the name of the visitor or a hospital consultant letter
- Photo ID from a recognised additional needs organisation
- Any other ID or documentation from a recognised additional needs association
Carer identification on its own will not be sufficient. The Park cannot accept PIP or DLA letters as independent supporting documentation.

Castle Adventure Open Farm

Website: www.openfarm.ie

Phone: +353 (0) 7198 52688 or 087 442 9998

Address: Ballymacaward, Wardtown Castle, Ballyshannon, Co. Donegal

Carers are free admission.

Water World Bundoran

Website: www.waterworldbundoran.com

Phone: +353 (0) 7198 41172

Address: Atlantic Way, Bundoarn, Co. Donegal

Carers are at a reduced entry fee with display of Carers ID Card.

Wild Ireland

Website: www.wildireland.org

Phone: +353 (0) 749719890

Address: Dundrean, Burnfoot, Co. Donegal F93KN7X

Wild Ireland provides a reduced entry fee for Carers.
Help and Advice

For help and advice about benefits:

Omagh Independent Advice Service
Telephone: 028 8224 3252

Dove House Resource Centre, Londonderry
Telephone: 028 7126 9327

The Resource Centre, Londonderry
Telephone: 028 7135 2832

Churches Advice Centre, Spencer Rd, Londonderry
Telephone: 028 7134 2536

Rosemount Community Resource Centre, Londonderry
Telephone: 028 7128 2829

Limavady Community Development Initiative (LCDI)
Telephone: 028 7776 5438

Advice North West:
Embassy Court, 3 Strand Road, Derry
Spencer House, 14-21 Spencer Road, Derry
17 Dock Street, Strabane
Phones: 0300 303 3650
028 7136 2444
028 7134 2536
028 7138 2665

Community Advice Fermanagh
Fermanagh House, Broadmeadow Place, Enniskillen
Phone: 028 6632 4334
Facebook

Carers NI also provide advice and support via a helpline Telephone: 028 9043 9843
Carers Newsletter

More information on the Carers Mailing List and to view the Latest Carers Newsletters.
Benefits Information
The criteria for Carers Allowance is that carers have to be caring for more than 35 hrs/week. Carers who care for more than 20 hrs in the week are entitled to claim Carers Credit, which means they will have credits allocated towards their pension. Carers who fall into the category of caring between 20 -34 hrs per week can Claim Carers credits by completing an application which can be accessed on the NI Direct website by clicking here or contact Carers Allowance Branch, Belfast Tel: 028 9090 6186, and they will post a form out.
Children and Young People Strategic Partnership

Resource and activity pack to support children and young people with a disability, and to support children and young people with their mental health. The pack also includes a host of other resources and activities
Useful Links