"Families with some disabilities have told the BBC they are upset over changes to eligibility rules for ride access passes at some of the UK's biggest theme parks. Merlin Entertainments said it would not allow people with conditions such as autism, ADHD and anxiety to use the disability queuing system this February half-term, due to increased demand for the passes."
"Bosses said they were committed to supporting neurodivergent guests and those with mental health needs, and were listening to feedback about the changes. They said they would keep the new approach "under review" ahead of their main season opening in March. Until now, those who have a "difficulty with crowds" have qualified for the ride access pass, allowing them to use a virtual queuing system - waiting outside the physical queue - and cutting waiting times for rides."
"He was especially looking forward to the new Bluey ride, Terri added, but she feared he would not be able to experience the park's latest addition because he tended to lash out in frustration when he got overwhelmed and she did not know how other visitors might react. "We wouldn't be able to go to Alton Towers because we couldn't run the risk of big queues," she said."
Merlin Entertainments has temporarily tightened eligibility for ride access passes, excluding people with conditions such as autism, ADHD and anxiety from the disability queuing system this February half-term because of increased pass demand. The pass previously covered visitors who have a "difficulty with crowds", enabling virtual queuing and reduced waiting times. Critics argue the change unfairly targets people with hidden disabilities and neurodivergence. A parent said her autistic son can become overwhelmed and had relied on the pass to enjoy attractions. Merlin stated it remains committed to supporting neurodivergent and mental-health-affected guests and will keep the approach under review before the main season.
Read at www.bbc.com
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