Find the areas of 3 researched destinations in this guide, then check each scheme’s rules. This is a growing shortlist, not every concession in Manchester.
Station searches and device-location sorting stay on this page. A postcode search sends only the postcode to Postcodes.io. Checker answers are never included. Nothing is saved.
Browse the researched destinations below.
Distances are straight lines to the named reference station, not the venue entrance or an accessible walking route. A nearby result does not mean open now or tickets available. Confirmed means sourced information, not a live check.
No destinations meet these filters. Try a wider distance or clear the access filter. Unconfirmed does not mean unavailable.
Manchester Museum
Area reference: St Peters Square (Manchester Metrolink) station.
Access details and journey
Step-free entrance: Confirmed
The café entrance on Oxford Road is step-free; lifts reach the public floors.
Accessible toilet: Confirmed
Four standard accessible toilets are listed by the museum.
Changing Places toilet: Confirmed
A Changing Places toilet is listed by the museum.
Seating for a rest: Confirmed
Seating and portable folding stools are available; ask the Visitor Team.
Hearing loop: Confirmed
A hearing loop is fitted at reception.
Relaxed or quieter sessions: Confirmed
Saturday 8–10am Quiet Time covers selected galleries; full museum spaces open at 10am.
Reference station for orientation only. Check the whole route, entrances and current lifts with the venue and transport operator; distance is not an accessible route assessment.
Details checked 9 Oct 2026. Recheck needed; confirm these details with the provider.
Salford Museum & Art Gallery
Area reference: Salford Crescent Rail Station station.
Access details and journey
Step-free entrance: Confirmed
The operator lists a ramp and lifts to all public floors.
Accessible toilet: Confirmed
An accessible toilet is listed on the ground floor.
Changing Places toilet: Unconfirmed
This feature has not been established for the visit. Ask the venue before relying on it.
Seating for a rest: Confirmed
Seating is listed throughout the museum.
Hearing loop: Confirmed
A hearing loop is listed at reception.
Relaxed or quieter sessions: Unconfirmed
This feature has not been established for the visit. Ask the venue before relying on it.
Reference station for orientation only. Check the whole route, entrances and current lifts with the venue and transport operator; distance is not an accessible route assessment.
Details checked 9 Oct 2026. Recheck needed; confirm these details with the provider.
Bolton Museum
Area reference: Bolton Rail Station station.
Access details and journey
Step-free entrance: Confirmed
A permanent ramp beside the entrance and an automatic entrance door are listed.
Accessible toilet: Confirmed
Accessible toilets are listed on the ground and first floors; ask staff about the RADAR key.
Changing Places toilet: Unconfirmed
This feature has not been established for the visit. Ask the venue before relying on it.
Seating for a rest: Unconfirmed
This feature has not been established for the visit. Ask the venue before relying on it.
Hearing loop: Unconfirmed
This feature has not been established for the visit. Ask the venue before relying on it.
Relaxed or quieter sessions: Unconfirmed
This feature has not been established for the visit. Ask the venue before relying on it.
Reference station for orientation only. Check the whole route, entrances and current lifts with the venue and transport operator; distance is not an accessible route assessment.
No upcoming sessions with these filters. Check the official calendar for more dates.
Support in your borough
Find council and local advice routes for all ten Greater Manchester boroughs. Choose the area where you live; local eligibility, funding and referral routes differ. These are starting points, and each provider decides what help it can offer.
Find my council
Enter your home postcode to find your council area and its local support links.
Only your postcode is sent to Postcodes.io when you search. It is not saved by Side Street. Your benefit and disability answers are never sent.
Enter your home area to find an advice service; check its appointment and referral arrangements.
Details checked 9 Oct 2026. Recheck needed; confirm these details with the provider.
Help with an application
Choose the help you need. These links open external services; you decide what to share there. We do not collect forms, award letters or financial details.
Check the name of the scheme, the application route and any deadline in your letter.
Ask an adviser what evidence is relevant, whether they can help with the form, and how to request an accessible appointment.
Keep a copy of what you submit and note the date. Ask the adviser about next steps if you receive a decision you want to challenge.
Use the Turn2us PIP Helper to work through the application process. For personal advice or a decision challenge, contact an adviser.
Details checked 18 Sept 2026. Recheck needed; confirm these details with the provider.
Choose an outing with access details
Use the researched museum access details below to check entrances, toilets, seating and the support you need. Free general admission covers the visitor and companion. Separate exhibitions, travel, food and organised events can cost extra.
Recent additions and useful provider announcements. Each note distinguishes a change to the guide from a change to a scheme. An announcement does not establish eligibility.
Provider change
Disabled Persons Railcard: new assessed eligibility route
The provider now confirms an expanded route for conditions that substantially affect rail travel. Applications need professional evidence and independent assessment. It is a current application route, rather than an automatic entitlement for every diagnosis.
Next step: Read the current checklist and evidence rules before applying. The Railcard still costs £20 for one year or £54 for three.
Checked . Due a fresh check; confirm the current details before travelling.
Use the linked scheme or provider for current rules. Older notes remain available as a record.
Check possible eligibility
Select whatever applies to the person using the scheme. This finds possible concessions; providers make the final decision. For benefit-payment estimates, use the free calculators and advice.
Answers stay on this page and are not saved or sent anywhere. No name, diagnosis, documents or income figures needed.
No award, another benefit, or prefer not to say? Leave benefits blank. You can still browse every scheme.
Optional: open the checker to narrow the guide.
Where to use it
Start with something you want to do. Each scheme has its own rules, proof and booking route.
27 schemes and useful services.
No matches with these filters. Try another category or clear your filters and answers to browse everything. This does not mean you cannot get help.
Days out
CEA cinema companion card
One companion ticket without charge when the qualifying cardholder buys their cinema ticket. A one-year card costs £6.50.
Where to use it
Participating UK cinemas, including participating Greater Manchester branches.
Who it’s for
Age 5 or over, with a disability-related need for someone to accompany you at the cinema. Listed disability awards or sight-registration documents are one route; individual assessment is also available.
Worth knowing: Your own ticket remains payable. A Blue Badge, Railcard, Universal Credit award or another access card is not automatic proof for CEA. Card expiry and booking conditions matter.
What will we pay? & before you go
Your ticket
The visitor’s own applicable admission price
Companion ticket
Check the scheme’s companion allocation
Registration and extras
£6.50 for a one-year CEA card
Guest limit
Essential companions only; ordinary guests are separate
A companion ticket and a guest ticket can have different rules. Check your final basket, including booking fees and optional extras.
Before you go
Use a current accepted award letter or sight-registration evidence, or request individual assessment. For under-16s, a parent or guardian completes the application.
Apply through CEA, then check whether your cinema participates and how it books companion seats.
Confirm your own ticket, each companion or guest ticket, and the access arrangements you need.
Details checked 9 Oct 2026. Recheck needed; confirm these details with the provider.
Proof and how to use it
What you need
Use a current accepted award letter or sight-registration evidence, or request individual assessment. For under-16s, a parent or guardian completes the application.
Next step
Apply through CEA, then check whether your cinema participates and how it books companion seats.
Rules & eligibility checked . Due for recheck; confirm the current terms with the provider.
Getting around
Disabled Persons Railcard
One-third off eligible rail fares for you and one adult travelling with you. £20 for one year or £54 for three years.
Where to use it
Eligible National Rail fares across Great Britain. Do not assume a Railcard discount applies to Bee Network tram or bus fares.
Who it’s for
Use the provider’s current eligibility list. From 30 September 2026 a new independently assessed route also covers conditions that substantially affect rail travel, with professional evidence.
Worth knowing: The Railcard costs money and does not make travel free. Some tickets and services are excluded; current evidence requirements depend on the route you use.
Proof and how to use it
What you need
Accepted disability-award, impairment or other eligibility evidence. The new route needs a health-professional report or a declaration signed by a suitably regulated professional.
Next step
Read the current checklist and apply to the Railcard provider. Carry the valid Railcard for every discounted journey.
Rules & eligibility checked . Due for recheck; confirm the current terms with the provider.
Getting around
Passenger Assist
Help planning and making a rail journey, including boarding assistance where needed.
Where to use it
National Rail journeys, including Greater Manchester stations.
Who it’s for
Disabled passengers and others who need help travelling. Tell the operator the practical support you require.
Worth knowing: Assistance is separate from your ticket and does not guarantee that every station, train or onward route meets your needs. Check lift outages and the journey home.
Proof and how to use it
What you need
No disability award is needed to ask for assistance. Explain your journey and what help you need.
Next step
Book with Passenger Assist or the train operator, and check each station’s facilities. Turn-up-and-go support is also available but may involve a wait.
Rules & eligibility checked . Due for recheck; confirm the current terms with the provider.
Getting around
Blue Badge
Parking concessions for qualifying disabled people; the rules depend on the place you park.
Where to use it
Apply through your home council; use under the relevant national and local parking rules.
Who it’s for
Meet an automatic eligibility condition or undergo the council’s assessment. The application checks how your condition affects mobility or journeys.
Worth knowing: A badge is not a promise of a parking space or free parking everywhere. Private car parks, time limits and local restrictions can differ.
Proof and how to use it
What you need
The application asks for identity, address and eligibility evidence; assessed cases can need supporting information.
Next step
Use GOV.UK to apply through your home council. Check the current charge and parking rules before travelling.
Rules & eligibility checked . Due for recheck; confirm the current terms with the provider.
Days out
National Trust essential companion
Essential companions can enter without charge under the National Trust’s companion arrangements.
Where to use it
Participating National Trust properties; check each Greater Manchester or nearby property.
Who it’s for
A disabled visitor who needs help to make their visit. Check the property and the number of essential companions before booking.
Worth knowing: The visitor’s own admission or membership remains separate. Travel, parking, paid events and some independently operated sites have their own rules.
What will we pay? & before you go
Your ticket
The visitor’s own applicable admission price
Companion ticket
Check the scheme’s companion allocation
Registration and extras
Check any property admission or membership cost
Guest limit
Essential companions only; ordinary guests are separate
A companion ticket and a guest ticket can have different rules. Check your final basket, including booking fees and optional extras.
Before you go
An Essential Companion pass can make visits easier, but the provider says it is optional. Explain the support you need to the property.
Read the property’s accessibility information and companion terms before selecting tickets.
Confirm your own ticket, each companion or guest ticket, and the access arrangements you need.
Rules & eligibility checked . Due for recheck; confirm the current terms with the provider.
Getting around
Greater Manchester disabled travel passes
TfGM offers a standard disabled person’s travel pass and a separate Travel Plus pass, depending on eligibility. The standard pass covers Greater Manchester buses at any time and tram/train travel within Greater Manchester after 9:30am on weekdays and all day on weekends and public holidays. Travel Plus allows bus, tram and train travel within Greater Manchester at any time under its own pass rules.
Where to use it
Greater Manchester, with national bus concessions under the relevant pass rules.
Who it’s for
Greater Manchester residence and the relevant statutory disability or assessment criteria. Receiving PIP or another award does not by itself establish which pass you qualify for.
Worth knowing: The standard pass and Travel Plus have different eligibility and conditions. Check the area, service and time covered by your pass. The pass does not establish a free companion fare or cover every part of a journey outside Greater Manchester.
Proof and how to use it
What you need
Read TfGM’s current eligibility checklist and evidence requirements; the relevant council or TfGM route assesses the application.
Next step
Use TfGM’s official pass page for the correct pass, application evidence and current rules. National bus concessions outside Greater Manchester have separate conditions.
Rules & eligibility checked . Due for recheck; confirm the current terms with the provider.
Practical access
Changing Places toilet finder
Find toilets with an adult-sized changing bench, hoist and extra space, with details of the equipment and opening arrangements.
Where to use it
Registered Changing Places facilities across Greater Manchester and the UK
Who it’s for
For people whose needs are not met by a standard accessible toilet, including people with non-visible conditions. Anyone can search the map.
Worth knowing: A standard accessible toilet is not necessarily a Changing Places toilet. Facilities and standards vary, and map information is not a live guarantee that equipment is available or working. Check opening hours and any venue-entry conditions.
Proof and how to use it
What you need
No benefit award is needed to browse. Check the individual venue for key, entry and staffing arrangements.
Next step
Search the official map, read the facility details and contact the venue before a first visit. Bring your own sling and confirm that it works with the equipment.
Rules & eligibility checked . Due for recheck; confirm the current terms with the provider.
Practical access
Energy and water Priority Services Registers
Free extra support such as accessible bills, help with meter readings and priority assistance during supply problems.
Where to use it
Your energy supplier, network operators and water company
Who it’s for
Disabled people and those with long-term conditions can ask to join. Other routes include older age, young children and temporary support needs. It is not limited to benefit recipients.
Worth knowing: Registration is support, not a bill discount or a guarantee of uninterrupted supply. Re-register when switching supplier and keep your details current.
Proof and how to use it
What you need
Explain the support you need directly to the relevant company. You can nominate someone to help with communications.
Next step
Contact your suppliers and network operators, or use the registration links in Scope’s guide. Confirm which companies have registered you, especially if you have separate gas, electricity and water providers.
Rules & eligibility checked . Due for recheck; confirm the current terms with the provider.
Everyday costs
Broadband and mobile social tariffs
Lower-cost broadband or phone packages, with current options from £10 a month. Most broadband tariffs are unlimited and offer speeds above 30 Mbit/s.
Where to use it
Participating providers serving your address
Who it’s for
Universal Credit is accepted across the current list. Major providers also include Pension Credit, Employment and Support Allowance, Jobseeker's Allowance and Income Support. Some accept PIP or Attendance Allowance. The person receiving the qualifying benefit needs to be the main contract holder.
Worth knowing: Benefit rules, prices, speeds and coverage vary by provider. If your current provider offers a social tariff, Ofcom says you can switch to it free at any time, the price will not rise mid-contract and there is no fee to leave that tariff early. Moving to another provider may still mean an exit charge on your existing ordinary contract, unless it is waived.
Proof and how to use it
What you need
The provider checks the qualifying benefit for the main contract holder. Check its tariff page for the exact benefit and any account details it needs.
Next step
Check Ofcom's current provider list and whether the tariff covers your postcode. Ask your existing provider to switch you, or compare another provider's coverage, speed and setup cost before changing.
Rules & eligibility checked . Due for recheck; confirm the current terms with the provider.
Everyday costs
Help with NHS costs
Check for free or reduced-cost NHS services, including the Low Income Scheme.
Where to use it
NHS prescriptions, dental care, eye care and some treatment travel
Who it’s for
Help depends on the service, country, benefits and personal circumstances. A low income can qualify even without a benefit award.
Worth knowing: Our selections do not establish an NHS exemption. NHSBSA says to pay if unsure or awaiting a decision; a refund may be possible if you were eligible. Check HC2/HC3 conditions rather than assuming every cost is covered.
Proof and how to use it
What you need
Use the NHSBSA checker to find the evidence or certificate needed. Low Income Scheme applications require income, savings and housing-cost evidence.
Next step
Complete the NHSBSA eligibility checker before claiming an exemption. It explains how to apply or use the help.
Rules & eligibility checked . Due for recheck; confirm the current terms with the provider.
Everyday costs
Scope Disability Energy Support
Free advice by phone or email about energy and water bills, debt, supplier problems and possible financial support.
Where to use it
Disabled people and households in England, Scotland and Wales
Who it’s for
Disabled people, including children, and households where a disabled person lives. A particular benefit award is not listed as a requirement.
Worth knowing: A response can take a few weeks. This is advice and support, not an automatic grant or debt write-off. Financial schemes have their own eligibility checks.
Proof and how to use it
What you need
For an appointment, have recent bills, meter readings if possible, and details of arrears or payment plans. Give these to Scope directly, not to Side Street.
Next step
Use Scope’s application to request phone or email support. Ask for any adjustments you need, including BSL or language interpretation.
Rules & eligibility checked . Due for recheck; confirm the current terms with the provider.
Benefits advice
Check benefits you might be missing
An estimate of benefits you could receive and help finding an adviser.
Where to use it
GOV.UK’s free benefit calculators and local advice links
Who it’s for
You do not need to receive benefits already. The calculators ask about your household circumstances.
Worth knowing: These estimate entitlement; they do not make an award. GOV.UK lists limitations for under-18s, students, some immigration circumstances and other situations. Use an adviser if those apply.
Proof and how to use it
What you need
Have accurate income, savings, rent and existing-benefit figures ready when using the external calculator. Do not send documents to Side Street.
Next step
Choose entitledto, Turn2us or Policy in Practice from GOV.UK, or follow its local benefits-adviser link.
Rules & eligibility checked . Due for recheck; confirm the current terms with the provider.
Practical access
Access to Work
A grant towards practical work support such as specialist equipment, support workers, travel when you cannot use public transport, vehicle adaptations or workplace changes. The grant does not affect other benefits and is not repaid.
Where to use it
Paid work in England, Scotland or Wales, including working from home
Who it’s for
You must be 16 or over, have a physical or mental health condition or disability that affects your work or journey, and be in paid work or starting or returning within 12 weeks. You do not need a diagnosis. Self-employed applicants normally need annual turnover of at least £6,500.
Worth knowing: This is assessed support, not an automatic payment. It does not fund reasonable adjustments your employer must make. Civil servants receive support from their employer instead. You or your employer may need to pay costs first and claim them back. Voluntary work is not covered.
Proof and how to use it
What you need
Give your contact and workplace details, explain how your condition affects work and what support you need, and provide a workplace contact if employed. Self-employed applicants need their Unique Taxpayer Reference; provide a National Insurance number if you have one.
Next step
Check the eligibility page, then apply online or call the Access to Work helpline. You can ask for another format or email communication if phone calls are difficult.
Rules & eligibility checked . Due for recheck; confirm the current terms with the provider.
Getting around
Jobcentre Plus Travel Discount
50% off selected rail tickets with a qualifying Jobcentre Plus Travel Discount Card.
Where to use it
Eligible National Rail journeys; check the selected ticket and card conditions.
Who it’s for
Your Work Coach or Jobcentre Plus decides eligibility. National Rail describes qualifying Jobseeker’s Allowance or Universal Credit claims of 3–9 months for ages 18–24, or 3–12 months for older claimants. Other benefit recipients may qualify from three months while actively working with an adviser.
Worth knowing: The discount applies to selected rail tickets. Check age boundaries and your claim with the adviser, and check the ticket’s conditions with the rail operator. This entry does not establish a Bee Network bus or tram concession.
Proof and how to use it
What you need
Ask your Work Coach which evidence is needed and carry the current photocard for discounted journeys.
Next step
Apply through your Work Coach or local Jobcentre Plus. Check the exact rail ticket’s discount and validity before buying.
Rules & eligibility checked . Due for recheck; confirm the current terms with the provider.
Benefits advice
Find charitable grants with Turn2us
A free, confidential search across more than 1,700 organisations offering grants as money, products or services that do not have to be repaid.
Where to use it
UK charitable funds searched online, including disability, occupation and local-area funds
Who it’s for
Every fund has its own rules. These commonly include financial need or low income and may also depend on disability or illness, present or past occupation, where you live or your age. Not being able to claim welfare benefits because of immigration status does not itself prevent an application to a charitable fund.
Worth knowing: A search result is not an entitlement or promise of an award. Funds can refuse applications and response times vary. A one-off grant can affect means-tested support if it increases your capital, so ask a benefits adviser if that may apply.
Proof and how to use it
What you need
The search starts with age and postcode, with optional details to narrow results. A fund may ask for proof of address, work history, income, savings and housing costs, plus the reason for applying. Some only accept an application through an adviser or support worker.
Next step
Use the Grants Search, read each matching fund’s exact rules and follow its application route. If it requires a professional referral, use the linked adviser finder or ask an existing health, social-care or advice worker.
Rules & eligibility checked . Due for recheck; confirm the current terms with the provider.
Everyday costs
VAT relief on disability equipment
No VAT on a limited range of qualifying goods and services. Examples can include wheelchairs, certain mobility scooters, specialist beds, stair lifts, hoists, disability-designed equipment, eligible repairs and adaptations.
Where to use it
UK purchases, hires or leases of qualifying disability goods and services for personal or domestic use
Who it’s for
You must be disabled or chronically sick for VAT purposes: a physical or mental impairment must have a long-term and substantial effect on everyday activities, or you must have a condition treated as chronic sickness. You do not need a benefit award or disability registration. Temporary incapacity and age alone do not qualify.
Worth knowing: The relief covers a limited range, not every item that makes life easier. General-use products, business use and equipment supplied for care provided in a hospital or care home are normally outside this route. HMRC does not refund customers directly or decide individual medical eligibility.
Proof and how to use it
What you need
The supplier will normally ask for a simple written eligibility declaration describing your condition and confirming personal or domestic use. Complete a separate declaration for each supplier. The supplier must also check that the particular goods or services qualify.
Next step
Ask the supplier before buying whether the exact item or service qualifies, then complete its declaration or HMRC’s form. If you were charged VAT incorrectly, ask the supplier for a refund.
Rules & eligibility checked . Due for recheck; confirm the current terms with the provider.
Practical access
Disabled Facilities Grant
A council grant of up to £30,000 in England towards necessary changes such as ramps, wider doors, a level-access shower, a stairlift, safer heating or lighting controls, or another adaptation the council approves. Some councils may give more. Relevant architect or surveyor fees can sometimes be included.
Where to use it
Homes in England, through the council for the property
Who it’s for
The disabled person must live in the property and usually intend to stay for the grant period, normally five years. The applicant can be the owner, a tenant or the landlord. The council must agree that the work is necessary and appropriate for the person's needs, and reasonable and practical for the property. You do not need a benefit award.
Worth knowing: Adults may have to pay towards the work. Parents' income is not counted for a disabled child under 18, and landlord applications are not assessed on the landlord's income or savings. Starting work before approval can lose the grant. Planning permission or building regulations approval may still be needed, and approved work should normally finish within 12 months. The disabled person usually needs to intend to remain for five years, with shorter periods possible in some cases.
Proof and how to use it
What you need
The council will tell you what it needs after assessing the home and the proposed work. Adult applications are normally means-tested using household income and savings over £6,000, so be ready to provide financial details. It may also ask for evidence of the disabled person's needs and your tenancy, ownership or landlord status.
Next step
Apply through the council for the property before any work starts. It may arrange an occupational therapist or trained assessor visit and must give a decision within six months. Foundations can help with an application. Appeal to the council first if you disagree, then use the Local Government Ombudsman route if the complaint is still unresolved.
Rules & eligibility checked . Due for recheck; confirm the current terms with the provider.
Practical access
Disabled Students' Allowance
Up to £27,783 a year towards disability-related study costs. Support can include specialist equipment, non-medical helpers, taxi travel when your disability stops you using public transport, and other extra study costs. It is based on your needs rather than household income and does not have to be repaid.
Where to use it
Eligible higher education courses in the UK, through Student Finance England for students who live in England
Who it’s for
You must live in England, have a disability, mental health condition, specific learning difficulty or long-term health condition that affects your ability to study, and be eligible for both a Tuition Fee Loan and a Maintenance Loan from Student Finance England. You do not have to take either loan if you apply only for DSA. Your funded undergraduate or postgraduate course must last at least a year, or an LLE-funded course must be worth at least 30 credits.
Worth knowing: Do not buy equipment before the needs assessment because it will not be reimbursed. If a new computer is approved, you pay the first £200. DSA does not cover ordinary student costs or disability costs unrelated to the course. You cannot use this Student Finance England route if you only qualify for a Tuition Fee Loan, are eligible for NHS DSA, receive equivalent support elsewhere, or are on a higher or degree apprenticeship. Medical and dental students with an NHS Bursary can check NHSBSA's separate DSA. For pre-2027 part-time courses, an undergraduate course cannot be more than four times the full-time length and a postgraduate master's cannot be more than twice the full-time length. Courses starting on or after 1 January 2027 use the Lifelong Learning Entitlement process.
Proof and how to use it
What you need
For a physical, sensory, long-term health or mental health condition, provide a medical professional's report or letter explaining its substantial and long-term effect, or another accepted form such as an EHCP. Autism needs diagnostic evidence or another accepted form. A specific learning difficulty needs a diagnostic assessment from a suitably qualified professional.
Next step
Apply through your Student Finance account if the option is available, or use the correct DSA1 form for your course and academic year. After an eligibility letter, an approved supplier arranges a needs assessment. The Student Loans Company aims to decide an application within four weeks, but support can take up to 14 weeks to put in place.
Rules & eligibility checked . Due for recheck; confirm the current terms with the provider.
Benefits advice
Carer's Credit
A National Insurance credit that can fill gaps in your record and help protect your State Pension. It is not a cash payment, and your income, savings and investments do not affect eligibility.
Where to use it
Your National Insurance record, while you care for someone at least 20 hours a week
Who it’s for
You must be 16 or over, under State Pension age and care for one or more people for at least 20 hours a week. The person you care for normally needs a listed disability benefit, but you may still qualify without one through a signed Care Certificate.
Worth knowing: This is a National Insurance credit, not money. If you get Carer's Allowance or Carer Support Payment, or Child Benefit for a child under 12, you already get credits automatically. Foster carers use a different National Insurance credit route. Tell the Carer's Allowance Unit about a break from caring lasting more than 12 weeks.
Proof and how to use it
What you need
If the person you care for does not get a listed qualifying benefit, ask a health or social-care professional to sign the Care Certificate in the claim form.
Next step
Download and complete the Carer's Credit claim form. Add the signed Care Certificate if it applies, then send the form to the Freepost address shown by GOV.UK.
Rules & eligibility checked . Due for recheck; confirm the current terms with the provider.
Benefits advice
Carer's Allowance
£86.45 a week, plus Class 1 National Insurance credits for each week you are paid.
Where to use it
England and Wales, when you care for someone at least 35 hours a week
Who it’s for
You must be 16 or over, normally live in England or Wales, provide at least 35 hours of care a week and meet the residence and immigration rules. The person you care for must get a listed qualifying disability benefit and component. You cannot be in full-time education or study for 21 hours or more a week, and your earnings must be £204 or less a week after tax, National Insurance and allowed expenses.
Worth knowing: Only one carer can normally be paid for the same person, and there is no extra payment for caring for more than one person. A claim can stop the cared-for person's severe disability premium, Pension Credit severe-disability addition or some Council Tax help. Universal Credit is reduced by the Carer's Allowance paid, though a separate carer amount may apply. State Pension and some other benefits overlap. Scotland uses Carer Support Payment instead.
Proof and how to use it
What you need
Have your National Insurance number, bank details, work or study details and allowed expenses ready. You also need the cared-for person's date of birth, address and National Insurance number, or their DLA reference if they are under 16.
Next step
Check how a claim could affect both people's benefits, using an official benefits calculator or adviser if needed. Apply online or by post; a claim can be backdated by up to three months.
Rules & eligibility checked . Due for recheck; confirm the current terms with the provider.
Getting around
Motability Scheme
Exchange all or part of a qualifying mobility allowance to lease a new car, Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle, scooter or powered wheelchair. Car leases include insurance, servicing and MOT, routine repairs and breakdown cover.
Where to use it
Across the UK, through Motability-accredited dealers and vehicle providers
Who it’s for
You must receive a qualifying allowance with at least 12 months left when you apply to join. The accepted routes are the higher-rate mobility part of DLA, the higher-rate mobility component of CDP or Scottish Adult DLA, the enhanced-rate mobility part of PIP or ADP, Armed Forces Independence Payment, or War Pensioners' Mobility Supplement. Lower mobility rates, daily-living or care components and Attendance Allowance do not qualify. You do not need to drive: a car can be driven by the customer or an insured named driver. Check the current licence, age and driver rules before ordering.
Worth knowing: The lease is paid from the qualifying mobility allowance, and most vehicles use all of it. Some vehicles need a non-refundable Advance Payment on top. The October to December 2026 list has more than 670 cars, including more than 60 with no or a low Advance Payment, but prices can change and vehicles can be withdrawn before the next list on 1 January 2027. For new car and Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle leases from 1 July 2026, most top-up payments carry VAT unless the customer and vehicle meet HMRC's relief rules; powered-wheelchair and scooter leases keep VAT relief. The lease agreement shows what applies. Optional extras cost extra, and you cannot buy the vehicle at the end of the lease.
Proof and how to use it
What you need
Have the award details, National Insurance number or Customer Reference Number of the person receiving the allowance, and identity evidence ready. A dealer application also needs the drivers' licences, claims history and any relevant driver declaration or grant letter.
Next step
Check the allowance and time remaining, then start the application online or speak to a Motability-accredited dealer. Visit the dealer to choose and order the vehicle; the dealer places the order for you.
Rules & eligibility checked . Due for recheck; confirm the current terms with the provider.
Benefits advice
Attendance Allowance
£76.70 or £114.60 a week towards the extra costs of personal support. It is not means-tested, so income and savings do not affect the rate.
Where to use it
England and Wales, for people who have reached State Pension age
Who it’s for
You must have reached State Pension age and have a disability or health condition that means you need help caring for yourself or supervision for safety. You must normally have needed that help for at least six months. Residence and immigration conditions apply. You cannot get Attendance Allowance at the same time as DLA, PIP, Adult Disability Payment, Scottish Adult Disability Living Allowance or Armed Forces Independence Payment.
Worth knowing: Attendance Allowance does not cover mobility needs, and an application does not guarantee an award. You cannot usually get it while a local authority pays for your care-home place, though you may still claim if you pay the full cost yourself. Scotland uses Pension Age Disability Payment instead. A successful claim could increase Pension Credit, Housing Benefit or Council Tax Reduction, so tell the office dealing with each one.
Proof and how to use it
What you need
Have your National Insurance number, contact details, information about how your condition affects you, your GP or medical-centre details and any current care-home, hospital or hospice details ready. DWP may arrange an assessment if the effect of your condition is unclear.
Next step
Apply online or send the Attendance Allowance claim form by post. If you phone for a paper form and return it within six weeks, a successful claim can start from the date of the call. Use the separate GOV.UK route if a medical professional says you may be nearing the end of life.
Rules & eligibility checked . Due for recheck; confirm the current terms with the provider.
Everyday costs
Warm Home Discount Scheme
A one-off £150 discount on your electricity bill. It is not paid as cash. If the same supplier provides your gas and electricity, you may be able to ask it to put the discount on your gas bill instead.
Where to use it
England and Wales, through participating electricity suppliers, for winter 2026 to 2027
Who it’s for
All three conditions must have applied on 23 August 2026: your electricity supplier took part in the scheme, you or your partner received Universal Credit, Housing Benefit, income-related Employment and Support Allowance or Pension Credit, and you or your partner was named on the electricity bill.
Worth knowing: The scheme is currently closed and GOV.UK says it will reopen in October 2026. The £150 is a bill discount, not cash. A qualifying benefit alone is not enough if the supplier or named-bill condition was not met on 23 August. Scotland has different application rules, and park-home residents use a separate route. The discount does not affect Cold Weather Payments or Winter Fuel Payments.
Proof and how to use it
What you need
The qualifying benefit, participating supplier and named-bill conditions all need to match the position on 23 August 2026. Keep your electricity account details and any official Warm Home Discount letter so you can check the decision or contact the scheme if asked.
Next step
Check that your supplier is on GOV.UK's winter 2026 to 2027 list and whether all three conditions applied on 23 August. In England and Wales the discount is normally automatic once the scheme reopens, and the supplier applies it to the bill.
Rules & eligibility checked . Due for recheck; confirm the current terms with the provider.
Getting around
National Express Disabled Coachcard
One-third off adult Standard and Fully Flexible fares for one year. The Coachcard costs £30, plus £3 postage when bought online or by phone.
Where to use it
Eligible National Express coach journeys between UK towns, cities and airports.
Who it’s for
The card is for disabled customers. National Express's public scheme page does not name a qualifying benefit award or require a particular disability document, so check the current purchase questions if your route is unclear.
Worth knowing: The card runs for one year from the start date you select or, for an in-person purchase with no future date selected, from the next calendar day. It is non-refundable and non-transferable, and tickets bought with it must not be transferred. Ticket refunds follow the fare: Standard fares are not refundable, while Fully Flexible fares may be refunded up to 24 hours before the original outward journey. Amended or part-used tickets are not refundable, and some fees and extras stay non-refundable. The discount does not cover Restricted fares, booking or SMS fees, add-ons, European, Hotel Hoppa, Ulsterbus, third-party, special-event, season or Multiride services and tickets, or packages including accommodation, admission or ferry travel. A lost or stolen card is not replaced free.
Proof and how to use it
What you need
National Express does not list benefit or medical evidence on the scheme page checked. You must have the physical Coachcard before travelling on a discounted ticket and show it with your ticket when boarding.
Next step
Buy the Coachcard online, by phone or at a participating station or agent. You cannot use the discount until the next calendar day after purchase. If you buy online or by phone, you must also wait until the physical card arrives. For online bookings, select the Coachcard option and enter its serial number and expiry date. Allow up to seven days for delivery if it is posted.
Rules & eligibility checked . Due for recheck; confirm the current terms with the provider.
Asking for local support
Use your borough’s contact routes, then ask about the help you need. These are England-wide starting points; local services and decisions vary.
Questions to ask your council or adviser
Which team can help with my situation, and can I contact it directly?
Is there a route without a benefit award? What evidence does this particular service need?
Can you help me complete the application or arrange an accessible appointment?
Are there charges, a waiting list, referral requirements or a closing date?
What should I do next, and who should I contact if I do not hear back?
For children and young people, ask about the council’s SEND Local Offer and children’s services. Ask the council which team handles any transition to adult support.
Ask your council’s social services for a care needs assessment. The assessment is free; any care offered afterwards may involve a separate financial assessment and charges.
Source checked 19 September 2026. Due for review; confirm current details with the provider.
Ask your council about equipment, an occupational therapy assessment and help adapting your home. A Disabled Facilities Grant may help with suitable changes; the council decides eligibility and funding.
Source checked 19 September 2026. Due for review; confirm current details with the provider.
If understanding care information or explaining your views is difficult, ask social services about independent advocacy. Availability and the right to an advocate depend on your circumstances.
Source checked 19 September 2026. Due for review; confirm current details with the provider.
An adult carer can ask adult social services for a free carer’s assessment, separate from the cared-for person’s assessment. Parents caring for a disabled child should contact the council’s children with disabilities service.
Source checked 19 September 2026. Due for review; confirm current details with the provider.
Independent benefits calculators give estimates and cannot be used by under-18s. They may be inaccurate for students and some other circumstances listed on GOV.UK. Speak to an adviser if a calculator does not cover your situation.
Source checked 19 September 2026. Due for review; confirm current details with the provider.
Prepare for an appointment
You can work through these steps on screen or take a printed copy to a support worker. Tick boxes are temporary and clear when you leave this page.
Plan an outing at your pace
Pick a destination from the guide and use this checklist to ask about the things that matter to you. It does not assess whether a venue or walking route meets your needs.
Open a plain, large-print guide with council links, practical next steps and both checklists. It contains public information only, without your checker answers or ticked boxes.
The selected public guide area appears in the page address. This does not set your residence or eligibility.
Using this page
Use your browser’s zoom to enlarge the page. The printable guide uses a plain background and larger text. All guidance and official links are available without JavaScript; location searches and filters are optional.
Use Tab to move between controls, Enter to follow a link and Enter or Space to open a section. A reader’s own access needs determine which facilities matter; “unconfirmed” means evidence is missing, not that a facility is absent.
This page does not claim an independent WCAG conformance audit. The short guidance is plain language, not an Easy Read version tested with readers.
If access information is wrong
Use the official provider link on the relevant entry to confirm changes before travelling. For an urgent lift, toilet or booking problem, contact the venue or transport operator directly. You do not need to share a diagnosis to describe a problem with published information.
Before you book
Check the provider’s current terms and ask which evidence they accept. An award letter, access card and Blue Badge are not interchangeable. A free companion ticket usually covers the person helping you; your own ticket may still cost money.
A discount does not tell you whether a place is accessible for you. Ask about the route in, toilets, seating, hearing support or quieter sessions you need. Check the exact performance date for captions, BSL interpretation, audio description or relaxed sessions.
For the journey, Passenger Assist can help with train boarding and connections. Confirm station access and mobility-aid limits for your route.
If you need an adult changing bench or hoist, use the Changing Places finder and contact the venue about its equipment and opening arrangements.
We aim to review these schemes weekly. Each card shows its last actual check, with a reminder when a recheck is due. Ticket availability and individual decisions still need checking with the provider.