What Is a CEA Card? Ultimate Guide to the Disabled Cinema Card

Did you know there’s a card that lets disabled people receive a complimentary ticket for a carer or companion to the cinema? It’s called the CEA Card, and for just £6, you can bring someone with you to help at the cinema for a whole year without paying extra for their ticket. It’s completely free.

In this guide, we will explain everything you need to know about the CEA Card, including how it works, who’s eligible, where you can use it, and how to apply.

What is a CEA Card?

The CEA Card is part of a national card scheme developed by the UK Cinema Association to support disabled cinema guests. It allows you to bring a carer or companion to the cinema for free when you buy a full-price ticket for yourself. The scheme aims to make cinema visits accessible and enjoyable for disabled people who might need a bit of extra help during their visit.

What Does a CEA Card Entitle You To?

The CEA Card allows you to receive one free ticket for a companion when you purchase your own ticket. This is on the condition that the person you bring along can provide the appropriate assistance if you need during your cinema visit, such as helping with accessibility needs or simply being there as an extra support.

Where Can You Use the CEA Card?

The CEA Card is widely accepted at around 90% of cinemas across the UK, including major chains and many independent venues.

Some of the top participating cinemas include Odeon, Vue, Cineworld, Picturehouse, and Arc Cinemas. These cinemas not only accept the CEA Card but also regularly hold autism-friendly screenings, making them even more accessible.

While most cinemas are part of the scheme, it’s always a good idea to double-check with your local cinema before you visit. Even cinemas that aren’t officially part of the CEA Card programme must still make reasonable adjustments for disabled guests, so it’s worth asking about the support they can offer.

Who is Eligible for a CEA Card?

To get a CEA Card, you need to be receiving one of the following benefits or registrations:

Benefits and Registrations
Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
Attendance Allowance (AA)
Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
Adult / Child Disability Payment (ADP / CDP in Scotland)
Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP)
Severely Sight Impaired Registration (formerly Registered Blind)
Sight Impaired Registration (formerly Partially Sighted)

If you’re unsure whether you qualify, it’s worth contacting the CEA Card team to discuss your situation.

How to Apply for a CEA Card

Applying for the CEA Card is simple, and you can do it online or by post.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply:

1. Gather Your Documents: Get your proof of eligibility, like a benefits award letter or a certificate if you’re registered blind or partially sighted. Make sure they are recent and clearly show your entitlement.
2. Take a Recent Photo: This should be a clear, recent picture of your face. It doesn’t need to be a passport photo but should be good enough quality as it will appear on the card.
3. Fill Out the Application Form: Apply online by filling out the form on the CEA Card website and uploading your documents. If applying by post, download the form, fill it out, and include your documents.
4. Pay the £6 Fee: Pay online with a debit or credit card if applying through the website. For postal applications, include a cheque or postal order payable to CEA Card.
5. Submit Your Application: Send everything online or by post. If you’re mailing it, only send copies of your documents as originals will not be returned.

After submission, your application is typically processed within 5 working days, and your card will be mailed to you with your name, photo, and expiry date.

How Long is the CEA Card Valid For and How to Renew It?

The CEA Card is valid for one year from the date of issue. After that, you’ll need to reapply if you want to continue using the benefits. Reapplying involves the same process of providing proof of eligibility, a recent photograph, and the £6 fee.

Why is There a £6 Fee for the CEA Card?

The £6 fee helps keep the CEA Card scheme running smoothly. It covers costs like maintaining the website, processing applications, and producing the cards. The fee ensures the scheme remains sustainable and continues to provide support to disabled people who need it.

What If My CEA Card is Lost, Stolen, or Damaged?

If your card is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can apply for a replacement. You’ll need to go through the application process again, including sending proof of eligibility and paying the £6 fee. Keeping your card safe is important, but replacements are available if something goes wrong.

Overall

The CEA Card is a fantastic way for disabled cinema guests to enjoy the movies with the help they need. For just £6 a year, you can bring someone along for free to assist you, making your cinema trips smoother and more enjoyable.

Whether it’s navigating the cinema, helping during an emergency, or just providing extra support, the card ensures you’re never alone when you need it most. If you think you’re eligible, applying for the CEA Card is a small step that can make a big difference in your future cinema trips.

FAQs

Does ODEON take CEA Cards?

Yes, ODEON is a participating cinema and accepts the CEA Card.

Can I use my CEA Card with ODEON Limitless?

Yes, the CEA Card can be used alongside ODEON Limitless membership.

Can you use a CEA Card with Cineworld Unlimited?

Yes, Cineworld Unlimited members can also use the CEA Card for their companion.

Do carers get into the cinema for free?

Yes, carers get a free ticket when accompanying a disabled person who has a CEA Card.

How much does a CEA Card cost?

The card costs £6 for a year’s membership.

Can I use my CEA Card at Vue Cinema?

Yes, Vue is one of the major cinemas that accept the CEA Card.

Can I use my CEA Card at Cineworld?

Yes, Cineworld is part of the scheme and accepts the CEA Card.

What can a CEA Card be used for?

The CEA Card allows you to bring someone to assist you during your cinema visit without the extra cost.

Can you use the CEA Card at the Theatre?

No, the CEA Card is specifically for use at participating cinemas, not theatres.