Inclusion Cards and Schemes

Cards for Individuals with a Learning Disability, Autism and other Support Needs:

1. Jam Card

The JAM card stands for Just. A. Minute. It allows people with a hidden disability or communication barrier to tell others that they need extra time and understanding in a private and easy way. This ensures that your access requirements are easily communicated. Most importantly, the card is free and available in digital form through an app on your mobile phone.

2. National Disability Card

The National Disability Card was launched in 2019. It was founded by carers who understand the challenges of living with a disability, through years of experience caring for a family member with cystic fibrosis.

Eligibility: Available to individuals with a “physical or mental impairment that has a ‘substantial’ and ‘long term’ negative effect on your ability to do normal daily activities.” You have to be living in the UK.

• Documentation: Required as proof of eligibility, e.g. Blue Badge, DLA decision letter, PIP letter etc.
• Cost: £20 (valid for 2 years). Successful applicants will get a discount code of 25% off a National Carers Card for your carer or companion
• Benefits: There are a wide range of discounts and benefits from Days Out to Food and Drink and Entertainmnet, plus much more.

3. Nimbus Access Card

The Nimbus Access Card is a photo ID that shows your access needs using symbols. These symbols help venues and services understand the support you might need, without you having to explain every time. Furthermore, you can use the card in person or online, like when booking tickets, to get the right help.

The card has space for up to nine symbols, each showing a different need – like help with standing or walking, needing a toilet quickly, using a wheelchair, needing a support person, or needing help with sound or visual information.

The Access Card app also gives you a personalised guide to places that are accessible, making it easier to plan your visits.

You can use this card all over the UK and beyond – check out where this card is accepted here!

In NI you can use it at:

• Exploris Aquarium
• Odeon, Belfast
• Crumlin Road Gaol
• Grand Opera House

• Lyric Theatre
• Odeon, Belfast
• The Mac
• Titanic Belfast
• W5

4. Hidden Disabilities Sunflower

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a discreet way for people with non-visible disabilities to let others know they may need a little extra support, understanding, or time. Similarly, by wearing the sunflower symbol, individuals can signal their hidden condition without having to explain it.

Created to promote awareness, inclusion, and understanding, the Sunflower is now recognised worldwide by businesses, transport providers, schools, and public services. Consequently, it is breaking down barriers and encouraging a more compassionate society for those living with invisible disabilities.

Equally important, the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower card is designed to help you feel confident and supported when visiting businesses and organisations that recognise the Sunflower. Whether you need extra time, help with mobility, or urgent access to facilities, the card lets others know—discreetly—that you may need a bit more support.

Finally, you can personalise your Sunflower card to reflect your specific non-visible disability and the type of help you need. Also, the new Sunflower Extra card will include a digital feature for even more flexibility.

Radar Key

A RADAR Key (National Key Scheme key) is a special blue and silver key that unlocks over 10,000 accessible toilets across the UK. It helps people with a disability access clean, secure toilets in places like train stations, shops, cafes, and airports.

You can get a RADAR key from your local council (often free or low-cost). You can request a RADAR key from Belfast City Council via:

• Email – [email protected]
• Telephone – 0800 032 8100
• Visit – Office at the Cecil Ward Building, 4-10 Linenhall Street, Belfast

Click here for more information on public toilets in Belfast with disabled access and the City Hall’s changing place facility.

Additionally, you can buy an official one online from trusted sellers like Disability Rights UK, the Blue Badge Company or through the National Carer’s Card service. Make sure it’s genuine so it works properly.

Cards for Carers

National Carer Card

The UK’s first official National Carer Card is a photo ID that confirms your role in caring for someone who needs support—due to illness, disability, mental health needs, or addiction. In other words, if someone relies on you because they couldn’t manage on their own, you’re eligible to apply. Importantly, there’s no need to submit documents—you simply confirm your role when applying.

The card costs £20. However, if the person you care for has a National Disability Card, you’ll receive a discount. As a result, the Carer Card can make it easier to prove your status and access services or support more smoothly.

Your card stays valid for two years. After that, you can renew it just a few days before it expires—no delays needed.

What’s more, the card comes with extra benefits. You’ll be able to buy a Disneyland Paris Priority Card and enjoy unique discounts and special offers from over 100 brands.

Carer Identification Card

In response to positive feedback from the Carer COVID ID Card, the Belfast Trust has introduced a new Carers Identification Card. Like the National Carer Card, this card also proves your caring role. Furthermore, it may help you receive discounts and access support at leisure venues and visitor attractions across Belfast and Northern Ireland.

To clarify, the card must be renewed annually. For this reason, it’s a good idea to keep it with you—some places may ask for recent proof of your status. In addition, you’ll receive a helpful booklet that lists local discounts and concessions available to carers.

All in all, both cards offer practical ways to be recognised, access support, and enjoy well-earned benefits in your caring role