Friday 27 July 2012

Trip to Chessington

I had an amazing day out yesterday. We went on a trip to Chessington World of Adventure, courtesy of Action for Children. Merlin Entertainment, who own several theme parks, including Chessington and Alton Towers, subsidised the trip so that we were able to go for a very reasonable reduced price per family.

For a coach full of kids with learning disabilities, the kids were surprisingly well behaved during the 3 1/2 hour journey.

The best thing about the trip was that we were all issued with a ride access pass, which meant that we didn't have to queue for the rides. This is a huge bonus when you have an autistic child, as these kids don't really understand the concept of queueing! My son was given a wristband which we had to show at the ride exit and the staff let us on the ride. By the way, hats off the to park staff, who were all lovely and very helpful.

I also believe that the other big theme parks run a similar scheme. Alton towers and Drayton manor also have a ride access policy. Disabled visitors need to bring proof of disability. DLA forms do not count, it has to be a doctor's letter or diagnosis letter. Show the letter at guest services and they should issue you with a wristband.

It made all the difference to our trip, which has been the highlight of our school holiday so far!

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