Nimbus Disability, which operates the Access Card – the first accessible ticketing scheme of its type in the world - has completed its busiest-ever season in partnership with some of the UK’s top leisure venues.

Nimbus is a social enterprise B2B consultancy which is run by disabled people for disabled people.

Its award-winning Access Card is held by more than 750,000 disabled people who have made around seven million visits to venues this year ranging from theme parks and sports stadia to festivals and theatres.

The Access Card offers a universal and consistent way for disabled people to evidence and communicate their needs to providers quickly and discreetly.

Powered by ‘NOS’, Nimbus Disability’s bespoke software, the system translates its holder’s disability/impairment/access requirements into symbols and when booking online, informs providers quickly and discreetly about the access requirements that individuals need.

Nimbus currently works in partnership with 46 theme park and leisure venue operators including Alton Towers, West Midlands Safari Park, Pleasure Beach Resort and Paulton’s Park which includes operates Peppa Pig World.

The year of substantial growth of the Access Card in the leisure park, pier and attractions sector culminated in Martin Austin MBE, who founded Nimbus Disability and created the Access Card, appearing alongside Andy Hygate, Operations Director of Pleasure Beach Resort, for a panel discussion on accessibility at IAAPA Expo in Amsterdam.

Mr Hygate said: “We’re very proud to partner with such a trusted provider of disability advice and support in Nimbus Disability.

“Our partnership ensures that our guests with accessibility needs can enjoy a smooth experience, and feel assured that their needs will be met before they visit us. It has streamlined the application process for our EasyPass and Essential Companion tickets and helps make sure this service benefits the guests who are using it.

“Working with Nimbus Disability, our aim is to always provide an inclusive environment where every guest can make unforgettable memories at Pleasure Beach Resort.”

This was echoed by other venue operators who work with Nimbus Disability.

Kate McBirnie, UK Accessibility Manager at Merlin Entertainments, said: “Over the past two years, partnering with Nimbus has transformed the visitor experience for guests with disabilities at our UK Resorts.

“Guests can now enjoy a seamless and personalised journey when booking tickets tailored to their unique accessibility needs, ensuring a positive and stress-free process.

“This collaboration has also empowered our team members to focus on delivering exceptional experiences, knowing that Nimbus has expertly handled and validated accessibility requirements in advance. It's therefore a win-win that elevates both guest satisfaction and operational efficiency.”

Lawrence Mancey, Marketing and Technology Director at Paultons Park, continued: “Working with Nimbus and integrating the Access Card into our website has transformed our operations at Paultons Park.

“Their innovations have enhanced our ability to deliver outstanding guest experiences while streamlining tasks for our team.

“Nimbus Disability’s inclusive approach aligns perfectly with our commitment to ensuring every visitor feels valued and supported. The efficiencies we’ve gained have been invaluable, and we’re excited to continue this collaboration and see even more positive outcomes in the future.”

Martin Austin at Nimbus Disability concluded: “This has been an incredibly busy season for our leisure venue partners who have integrated our bespoke software into their own ticket booking systems to improve access for disabled people.

“It was particularly good to be able to share our experiences and the benefits of working together with Andy at the Expo recently.

“We are spending the next few weeks finalising further improvements to the software to make it even more user friendly for day to day and strategic management users ahead of the re-opening of venues in the early spring.”