Essential Companion Scheme
The Essential Companion Scheme is offered to individuals who require a companion to assist them in accessing the facilities at the Grand Pier, as well as ensuring their safety, wellbeing and enjoyment.
Essential Companions can access the Grand Pier free of charge when accompanying a paying Cardholder. One companion is permitted per Cardholder. For individuals who do not live in the area and/or do not wish to become a Cardholder, one free Essential Companions Wristband can be issued when purchasing a full price Unlimited Ride Wristband.
To apply for an Essential Companions Card please complete Essential Companions Cards Application Form before you arrive and present this alongside the eligibility evidence, and your companion won’t need to pay an entry fee.
It’s in your name so you can bring whomever you like, but even if you don’t have an Essential Companion card, when you arrive you can collect the paperwork to get started.
An Essential Companion must be over 14 years of age and capable of assisting the guest with the disability. The Essential Companion would be expected to understand the person’s condition and assist them in managing it for the duration of the visit.
Eligibility
You will need to provide evidence that the card holder receives one of the following:
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Attendance Allowance (AA)
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP)
- Blind Persons Registration
- Rainbow Resource Card
You will need to bring a copy of the awarding letter from DWP or a statement confirming receipt of the allowance for the person requiring assistance (the card holder).
This should be dated within the last 12 months.
Alternatively, if you are a Registered Blind Person then please bring a photocopy of certification for the person requiring assistance (the card holder). Please note that ESA (Employment and Support Allowance) or the Blue Badge on its own are not accepted as proof of eligibility
For full terms and conditions please visit our terms and conditions page.
Download our Essential Companions Cards Application Form