ACCESS REQUIREMENTS, PERSONAL ASSISTANT AND PROCESS

If you require assistance (free Personal Assistant ticket) to attend CarFest, wish to camp in the Accessible Campsite or have any other access requirements, please follow the process below:

  • Purchase a ticket for every fee-paying member of your party
    • DO NOT purchase a ticket for the person coming as a PA / Carer
    • If you do and then get awarded a carer ticket, we will not allow a refund.
    • If you are not awarded a free ticket you will be able to pay for the extra ticket later - you can read later how we decide on entitlement to free Personal Assistant tickets.
    • The process is the same for children with access requirements but the child ticket is free NOT the Personal Assistant they are required to pay for a full adult ticket.
    • If you are planning to camp with a caravan/campervan or motorhome, please do not purchase your caravan permit via our standard ticket sale page, but apply for an Accessible Caravan Permit via the forms below.
  • Download our online Access Requirement Form (only valid with a ticket reference number) and send it back to access@carfest.org with any supporting evidence.
  • Day Access Requirement Form – DOWNLOAD
  • Camping Access Requirement Form – DOWNLOAD
  • We will endeavour to respond within 10 working days to confirm your requests.
  • We will then send you a confirmation email, and further instructions

Please note - Photo ID of the Access customer will need to be presented at ticket exchange on arrival. For children with Access requirements, we will take both the children’s and parents’ photo ID into account.

Free Access Passes, Personal Assistant Tickets, Free Campervan permits CANNOT be sold on.

If you have purchased an access campervan permit and can no longer attend, please contact our access team at access@carfest.org with the relevant details and proof. The SEE Tickets team can then change the ticket type so you can attempt to resell.

PROOF OF ACCESS REQUIREMENTS: PERSONAL ASSISTANT TICKETS

Alongside your completed access registration form, we can take the following types of information into account to award a Personal Assistant ticket.

For a free essential Personal Assistant ticket for adults we require evidence dated within a year of the event:

  • A valid Access Card with a +1 symbol
    • Please provide and a photo of your card.
  • A copy of a current award letter (included name address and rates of the award) of DLA, PIP, Attendance Allowance or similar
  • Impairment specific registration card / certificate
  • A recent personal letter of support from your hospital specialist clearly stating the need for a substantial amount of support from another person

Personal Assistant tickets are only issued where the disabled customer requires a significant and substantial amount of support from another person to attend the event. This support must be beyond what can reasonably be expected to be provided by friends and family already in attendance with you.

If you do not require a free Personal Assistant ticket or Accessible Campsite permit, but you have other requirements, please purchase the appropriate number of tickets and also complete the Access Requirements form.

Once agreed, a free Personal Assistant ticket of the same type already bought by you or an Accessible Campsite permit will be added to your order. The tickets will then be issued to you prior to the event.

CHILD ACCESS AND PERSONAL ASSISTANT TICKETS

Free tickets are available for all children with access requirements that prove eligibility via the access registration form

Subject to approval, the child ticket might be issued for free NOT the Personal Assistant they are required to pay for a full adult ticket.

GETTING HERE & PARKING:

For Accessible parking follow the general CarFest traffic signage on the main approach to the event. As you get closer to the event site there will be specific signage for Accessible parking and camping. There is no fee to park for visitor sholding a blue badge.

Please note that additional vehicles without a blue badge permit are required to purchase a car parking pass from our ticket platform.

Blue Badge Permits will be required before entry into the car park. Parking spaces are restricted to one badge per car, any additional cars with friends and family members not holding a blue badge will need to park in the main festival car parks. Blue Badge permit holders are not required to purchase a car parking pass. Festival staff members will be on hand to guide you to the car parks and direct you onto your chosen campsite.

Accessible Campsite Parking: Please note that cars will not be permitted to park next to your caravan or tent, they should be parked in the Accessible car park. However, you are welcome to drive into the Accessible campsite to unload and once unloaded you need to park in the car park which is adjacent to the campsite.

If you’re coming on Public Transport - follow general signage and then you will find access specific signage as you get closer.

MOBILITY SCOOTER HIRE:

Event Mobility (Charitable Incorporated Organisation) will be providing electric mobility scooters and manual wheelchairs at this event for the use of mobility impaired, disabled and elderly visitors.

To reserve an electric mobility scooter or manual wheelchair at CarFest please book online at https://www.eventmobility.org.uk/book-your-scooter

Online bookings must be made 2 days before the event.
Bookings cannot be taken during the event. If there is spare equipment available at the event it is offered on a first come, first served basis only.

Event Mobility are at a number of other events. For further information please visit their website www.eventmobility.org.uk.

Access Wristbands:

Disabled guests who are unable, because of the nature of their impairment, to camp may be permitted to bring a caravan/campervan free of charge as a reasonable adjustment.

If there is not a substantial disability-related need for this a full CV permit must be purchased at normal cost - we will be able to provide you a link to purchase the right permit.

To be considered for a free campervan pitch you must request this and tell us more in the access registration form.

Access Customers who are unable, because of the nature of their impairment, to camp may be permitted to bring a caravan/campervan free of charge as a reasonable adjustment if medical evidence is provided.

If there is not a substantial disability-related need for this a full CV permit then an ACCESS CV permit must be purchased at normal cost - we will be able to provide you a link to purchase this permit.

To be considered for a free campervan pitch you must request this and provide your evidence in the access registration form.

Campers will be provided with wristbands when they arrive on site.

ACCESSIBLE CAMPSITE FACILITIES

To apply for an Accessible Campsite permit, you must first purchase a Weekend with Camping ticket. Once you have your ticket reference number, please follow the Access Requirements process.

There are accessible toilets and accessible showers (RADAR key required) in the campsite. In addition to these facilities, we also have a charging tent which has plug points available for those that need to charge power wheelchairs and scooters, a drinking water tap, a pot washing station and a fridge for storing medication and specialist food. There will also be standard facilities for non-disabled campers and it is politely requested that those campers not use the accessible facilities.

Changing Places Unit/HDU are located in the arena. The unit includes a height-adjustable changing bench, a hoist and room for up to two PAs. This is designed for customers who need hoisting and extra care/support and should only be used where necessary. Slings cannot be provided so we advise customers to bring their own should they be required. This unit is RADAR key controlled, if you have a key please bring it with you. If not, one can be collected from the campsite managers office.

*Please note, if you require the use of a HDU/Changing Places/Hoist, please ensure you indicate on the Access Requirements booking form.

Please note that a maximum of 5 people (including yourself and your Personal Assistant) may camp.

Due to limited space in the Accessible Campsite, we need to be strict on how much space each group is allocated. Therefore, space will be allocated based on individual requirements by our Accessibility Campsite Manager.

All groups are asked to abide by this so that we can fit as many people in the campsite as possible.

CARAVAN/CAMPERVANS

Access customers who are unable, because of the nature of their impairment, to camp may be permitted to bring a caravan/campervan free of charge as a reasonable adjustment.

If there is not a substantial disability-related need for this a full CV permit must be purchased at normal cost - we will be able to provide you a link to purchase the right permit.

To be considered for a free campervan pitch you must request this and tell us more in the access registration form.

ELECTRICAL HOOK-UPS

If you wish to arrange a power hook-up within the accessible campsite, we need to know in advance so the appropriate arrangements can be made with our power company.

Power can be supplied free of charge for Access customers (only for devices that can't be charged/used with battery power packs) who require electricity due to a proven medical need. Customers who turn up on the day without making arrangements may not be able to acquire a power hook-up.

For those that wish to purchase a power hook-up due to not being eligible for a free hook-up, a link to pay will be sent on request. Please make this clear in your access registration

Power to tents is strictly only supplied if there is a proven medical need. There is no option to pay for power hook-up and we will not permit any connections to be made.

ARENA FACILITIES

Viewing Platforms

In the arena itself, we have 2 viewing platforms and a family enclosure reserved for Access customers and their Personal Assistant. At busy times when these areas becomes full, we will stop allowing access to and operate a one-in-one-out policy. Please do not reserve seats..

Please be advised that scooters are not be permitted on the platforms as a form of seating. You will be able to drive your scooter onto the platform then transfer to a chair. This will allow more space to accommodate visitors who need to use the area.

Some seating is available for disabled guests at the viewing platforms but if you want to take advantage of having a wander round the event then it is advisable to bring a folding seat with you should you need to rest. For anyone joining the Access Customer on the platforms we can provide at most one additional chair, no further chairs will be allocated as we need to keep these available for those guests that need to sit down, but you are welcome to bring your own.

Changing Places Unit/HDU are located in the arena. The unit includes a height-adjustable changing bench, a hoist and room for up to two PAs. This is designed for customers who need hoisting and extra care/support and should only be used where necessary. Slings cannot be provided so we advise customers to bring their own should they be required. This unit is RADAR key controlled, if you have a key please bring it with you. If not, one can be collected from the information point.

*Please note, if you require the use of a HDU/Changing Places/Hoist, please ensure you indicate on the Access Requirements booking form.

ACCESSIBLE TOILETS

These are within most toilet blocks around the site and additional accessible toilets at each viewing area and first aid tent. If you’re ever unsure of where the nearest one is please just ask the nearest steward or take a look on the festival map.

THERAPY ANIMALS & ASSISTANCE DOGS

Medically prescribed, Therapy animals are accepted. However, proof with need to be provided for a ticket to be issued.

Please email the access team for further information. Whilst CarFest welcomes Assistance Dogs, the show is not an ideal environment for even well-trained dogs and we strongly recommend you to make use of our free Personal Assistant scheme.

If you still wish to bring an assistance dog please complete the access form and email to access@carfest.org along proof of your dog’s certification so that we may issue a ticket.

No assistance dog and therapy animals will be allowed on site if not previously approved by our accessibility team and without the relevant ticket.

MEDICAL AND WELFARE SERVICES

The medical tent is located within FoodFest, next to Britain’s Best Farmers Market. We welcome attendees who need to bring medicines, medical equipment, food or drink to manage a medical condition.

If you have any medication that needs to be kept cool, there is a fridge available in the medical tent. We recommend you take your medication directly to the medical tent when you arrive on site. This can be left there across the weekend at your own risk.

NEURODIVERSITY

Facilities for individuals who are neurodivergent – such as those with autism, ADHD, sensory processing disorder, or other neurodevelopmental conditions

We have a family enclosure this is an area at the front of the accessible viewing platform that is fenced in creating a secure and not overcrowded environment.

In the SpaFest are you will find relaxation activities and sensory spaces suitable for all ages.

Various quiet areas can be found around the festival site.

The Access team are always available to help and have staff trained in dealing with de-escalation and sensory overload.

To use these facilities please complete the access form and send to the Access team with any additional information you feel will assist us to help you.

CarFest recognise navigating crowded spaces, loud noises, and unfamiliar sensory stimuli can be very overwhelming, but it is possible enjoy Carfest while accommodating sensory needs.

Here are some tips that can help:

Plan Ahead

  • Before attending the festival, research the location, and potential sensory triggers. Knowing what to expect can help reduce anxiety.
  • Check out all of our website and or our Facebook page, sign-up to our newsletter so you can find new updates and information as soon as possible.
  • Choose the right time, avoid arriving as soon as gates open and avoid leaving right at the end of the night.
  • Use Noise-Cancelling headphones or ear defenders.
  • Create a Sensory Kit: pack a sensory kit filled with comforting items such as fidget toys, stress balls, sunglasses, or other favourite items. Blankets and hoodies work well to hide under or in to have a feeling of security. Also consider practical items like, snacks a refillable water bottle, toilet paper, wipes and hand sanitiser. Keep the sensory kit easily accessible throughout the festival.
  • Find a safe space to feel comfortable and decompress before becoming overwhelmed.
  • For younger children consider hiring a trolley from airs and graces that you can create a bed in and fill it with favourite toys take a large blanket to cover the top to make it warm and dark as well.
  • Identify specific enjoyable activities or attractions that suit the individual’s interests and preferences. Whether it’s tasting foods, relaxing in SpaFest participating in arts and crafts, playing in KidsFest or watching the cars and performances, prioritize activities that bring joy and engagement while minimizing sensory overload.

ACCESS TO PERFORMANCE

Our box offices are equipped with hearing loop systems on request for those using hearing aids. If you require this facility, please email the CarFest Access Team using access@carfest.org

If you require access to a BSL interpreter or other communication adjustments please make sure this is clearly stated on your registration form. We will be in touch to discuss appropriate levels of support

DISTANCES: CARFEST

We operate a shuttle bus service between the blue badge carpark accessible campsite and the arena. This bus runs daily from show open until show closed and is operated by Festival stewards. The bus is first come first serve basis and cannot be pre-booked. The bus is extremely busy at the start and end of each day and you may have to wait, please be patient during this time.

The bus collects from the following destinations:

Accessible day car park

Accessible campsite

Show site

*as the show closes down each night the bus cannot run for approx. 20mins to allow the crowds to exit the site.

OPENING & CLOSING TIMES

To be confirmed closer to the festival dates.

CONTACT OUR ACCESS TEAM ON

access@carfest.org

PROUD TO BE SUPPORTING UK CHILDREN’S CHARITIES