More than 10,000 individuals have signed a petition in protest against recent changes to queue regulations at Alton Towers, which have significantly impacted guests with disabilities. The petition highlights concerns that the new rules discriminate against those with hidden disabilities and neurodivergent conditions.
Ride Access Pass System Under Scrutiny
Alton Towers, operated by Merlin Entertainments, utilises a Ride Access Pass (RAP) system designed to assist guests who may struggle with standing in lengthy queues due to a disability or medical condition. This system provides a queuing adjustment to ensure accessibility for all visitors.
Policy Changes Exclude Hidden Disabilities
However, recent policy alterations by Nimbus, the Access Card provider used throughout the UK to communicate disability needs, have led to significant exclusions. Under the new guidelines, individuals with conditions such as ADHD and autism may no longer qualify for the RAP pass at any Merlin attractions, including Alton Towers and Warwick Castle.
Merlin is currently trialling a revised system that only accepts specific Nimbus symbols, including 'Difficulty Standing', 'Level Access', and 'Urgent Toilet Needs'. Notably, the symbol for 'Difficulty with Crowds' has been excluded, directly affecting those with sensory processing issues common in neurodivergent individuals.
Petition Organisers Speak Out
Twin brothers Jamie and Jason Evans, aged 34 from Shrewsbury, are among the petition's organisers. Jamie has a mild form of autism, while Jason has Asperger syndrome. They argue that the changes constitute clear discrimination against people with neurological difficulties.
Jamie Evans explained: "We started our petition because this is simply discrimination - basically saying if you have a neurological difficulty, you are no longer entitled to the RAP. They are letting hundreds if not thousands of people down."
Safety and Inclusion Concerns Raised
The petition creator has emphasised multiple serious concerns regarding the policy update:
- The exclusion of hidden disabilities and neurodivergence from priority queue access
- The unrealistic expectation that individuals with these conditions can queue like neurotypical visitors
- Potential safety issues during emergency evacuations when staff cannot identify those needing assistance
- The threat of boycotting Merlin attractions in favour of smaller UK theme parks that better support neurodiversity
The petition statement reads: "The Ride Access Pass system update that has recently been made by Merlin Entertainments is a really poor decision that is also discrimination. It excludes those with hidden disabilities and neurodivergence from attending their theme parks and attractions."
Comparison with Industry Standards
Critics have pointed to other major theme park operators, notably Disney, which provide comprehensive support for visitors with hidden disabilities. This comparison has increased pressure on Merlin Entertainments to reconsider their current approach and implement more inclusive practices.
The ongoing controversy highlights broader issues surrounding accessibility in leisure attractions and the importance of accommodating all types of disabilities, both visible and hidden. As the petition continues to gather signatures, stakeholders await Merlin's response to these significant accessibility concerns.
