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Concern about Merlin's RAP changes for autistic visitors

seanjhatch

Hi everyone,

I wanted to start a discussion about Merlin’s (Alton Towers, Chessington, Thorpe Park etc) recent update to the Ride Access Pass (RAP), as I’m worried it may negatively affect many autistic people and others with non-physical disabilities.

Merlin have announced that from 2nd February 2026, they will only accept the following Nimbus symbols for RAP eligibility:

  • Difficulty Standing

  • Level Access

  • Urgent Toilet Needs

This seems to mean that difficulties related to crowds, sensory overload, and long queues may no longer be considered in the same way.

My 12-year-old sister is autistic and physically able, but she really struggles with busy, crowded queues for long periods of time. RAP has been what made visits to places like Alton Towers manageable and enjoyable for her. Without that support, it’s hard to see how we could continue going.

I completely understand the need for clear criteria, but I’m concerned that this change could unintentionally exclude many neurodivergent visitors who still have very real access needs.

Has anyone else been affected by this or heard more about how it will work in practice?
And does anyone know what the best way is for families to raise concerns or ask Merlin to reconsider support for autistic visitors — for example through feedback channels or disability advocacy groups?

It would be really helpful to hear others’ thoughts and experiences.

Thanks

Parents

  • This doesn’t affect me as I don’t go to theme parks. The BBC reports on how the new rules will discriminate against a group of people which include those with autism and ADHD.

    I am wondering if increased queue times are the only issues here or does it cost the theme parks more to manage effective queuing systems for  people with autism and ADHD?  

    I have no idea what the answer is but I wondered if financial greed is somehow coming into this. Whatever the reason, it’s just another example of a society that isn’t geared for autistic people. 

     https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cx2gwgj4xreo

Reply

  • This doesn’t affect me as I don’t go to theme parks. The BBC reports on how the new rules will discriminate against a group of people which include those with autism and ADHD.

    I am wondering if increased queue times are the only issues here or does it cost the theme parks more to manage effective queuing systems for  people with autism and ADHD?  

    I have no idea what the answer is but I wondered if financial greed is somehow coming into this. Whatever the reason, it’s just another example of a society that isn’t geared for autistic people. 

     https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cx2gwgj4xreo

Children
  • in reply to ArchaeC

    From the article, it sounds like those who are physically disabled have complained about those with hidden disabilities? I'm sure money comes into it too, as Trump has made it fashionable to disregard autism et al., much the way he threw out the Paris agreement and businesses rushed to throw out their green washing policies.