Including What Is and Is Not Means-Tested
Many disabled people aged 65 and over are entitled to financial support, practical help, and discounts, including free or discounted companion access at attractions and shows. Some support is based on age or disability alone, while other help depends on income and savings (known as means-tested support).
Disabled people aged 65+ are entitled to dignity, inclusion, and access to everyday life — including cultural and social experiences. Many forms of support, including free companion entry, are based on need, not income.
This page explains what may be available and how eligibility works.
What Does “Means-Tested” Mean?
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Not means-tested: Your income and savings are not taken into account
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Means-tested: Your income and savings are taken into account
Many concessions for disabled people are not means-tested.
Support That Is NOT Means-Tested (Income and savings are not taken into account)
Attendance Allowance
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For people over State Pension age with a disability or long-term condition
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Helps with personal care or supervision needs
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Paid weekly
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Not means-tested
Free Bus Pass
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Free off-peak travel for people over State Pension age
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Some areas allow a companion to travel free
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Not means-tested
Disabled Persons Railcard
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1/3 off rail fares for you and a companion
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Not means-tested
Blue Badge
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Parking concessions for disabled people
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Applies whether you drive or are a passenger
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Not means-tested
NHS Support (Age-Based)
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Free prescriptions
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Free eye tests
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Free flu and COVID vaccinations
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Not means-tested
Winter Fuel Payment
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Annual payment to help with heating costs
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Not means-tested
Entry to Attractions, Venues, and Shows
Free or Discounted Companion / Carer Access
Many UK venues offer a free companion or carer ticket when a disabled person purchases a standard or concession ticket.
This often includes:
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Theatres and live shows
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Cinemas
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Concerts and music venues
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Museums and heritage sites
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Zoos, gardens, and visitor attractions
Key points to know:
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Companion tickets are usually not means-tested
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Proof of disability may be required (e.g. Blue Badge, Attendance Allowance award, Access Card, or similar)
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Policies vary by venue, so it’s best to check in advance
Leisure and Culture Concessions
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Reduced entry to leisure centres and swimming pools
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Concessions for fitness classes and activities
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Often include free or discounted carer access
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Usually not means-tested
TV Licence Concessions
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Discounted licence if you are severely sight impaired (not means-tested)
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Free licence at age 75 only if you receive Pension Credit (means-tested)
Support That IS Means-Tested (Income and savings are taken into account)
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Tops up income for people over State Pension age
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Means-tested
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Can unlock extra help, including Council Tax Reduction and NHS cost support
Council Tax Reduction
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Help with Council Tax bills
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Means-tested
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Provided by local councils
Warm Home Discount
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Help with electricity bills
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Means-tested
Extra Help With NHS Costs
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Dental care
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Glasses
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Travel to hospital appointments
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Usually linked to Pension Credit
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Means-tested
Local Schemes and Community Support
(Availability varies by area)
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Community and accessible transport schemes
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Taxi card discounts
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Local leisure and cultural concessions
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Carer and companion discounts
Some are means-tested, others are not. Local advice services can help clarify what’s available.
Why This Matters
Free companion access can make social, cultural, and leisure activities accessible and affordable, helping people stay active, connected, and independent. Many people miss out simply because they don’t realise this support exists or feel unsure about asking.
Where to Get Help
Free, confidential advice is available from:
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Citizens Advice
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Age UK
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Local councils
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Disability and voluntary sector organisations
They can help explain eligibility and support applications.
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