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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

  • in reply to ArchaeC
    ArchaeC said:
    This doesn’t affect me as I don’t go to theme parks.

    I feel it affects all of us. If this change remains in effect after their review, it will set a high-profile precedent that could easily end up restricting our access to all kinds of other places (both in the UK and abroad) where the card is recognised as proof of someone's needs.

    Merlin have removed a perfectly reasonable adjustment from those who genuinely need it.

Reply
  • in reply to ArchaeC
    ArchaeC said:
    This doesn’t affect me as I don’t go to theme parks.

    I feel it affects all of us. If this change remains in effect after their review, it will set a high-profile precedent that could easily end up restricting our access to all kinds of other places (both in the UK and abroad) where the card is recognised as proof of someone's needs.

    Merlin have removed a perfectly reasonable adjustment from those who genuinely need it.

Children
  • in reply to ArchaeC
    ArchaeC said:
    I hope I have redeemed myself by generally supporting us as an autistic community?

    No personal criticism was intended - I’m sorry if my reply came across that way.

    I understand you meant that it doesn’t affect you personally, in practical terms.

    I also don’t go to theme parks; I was just sharing my different perspective. Slight smile

  • in reply to Bunny

    Yes, I realised how my first sentence come across when I looked at it later.

    Perhaps I should have said that I don’t go to theme parks so the entry system doesn’t impact me on a personal level.

    I hope I have redeemed myself by generally supporting us as an autistic community?