A combined discount and identity card for children with disabilities is available for free for the first time in Croydon.

Children on the council’s register of under 18s with a severe moderate or disability can now get an Access Card for free, which usually costs £15 every three years elsewhere in the country.

The card offers nationwide cut-price tickets for disabled children and concessions for their companions on entertainment ranging from West End theatres to sports matches and music festivals.

Martin Austin, managing director of Nimbus Disability, which made a unique deal with the council to enable free access, said: “We have worked extensively with the ticketing industry to recognise the Access Card as a proof of access requirements.

“For many people, this means access to free companion tickets to a range of live shows and visitor attractions from ZSL London Zoo to the 02 Arena.

“We are really pleased to see a local authority leading the way by working directly with people with disabilities to create and implement a scheme like this.”

The arrangement with Nimbus Disability means young people get the Access Card’s membership and related benefits for free if they join the council’s disability register.

Currently there are around 1,000 children on Croydon’s register, which helps the council to plan its services and keep residents informed about its work.

To qualify for the free Access Card, a child or young person must be aged 18 or under, a borough resident and be diagnosed with a permanent and substantial disability.

The Access Card is widely accepted as proof of a disabled person’s needs and provides access to concessions such as free companion passes and tickets.

The card has symbols which confirm a person’s needs to inform providers quickly and discreetly about the support that may be required

Councillor Jane Avis, cabinet member for families, health and social care, said: “This card is very useful for children and young people with disabilities because it doubles as an identity card that helps people to understand their needs and also as a way of getting discounts across the country.

“I’m pleased we have entered the country’s first arrangement of this kind with Nimbus, and I hope it will encourage even more local people to join our register.”

For more information on the scheme, visit the council's website.