CEACard Frequently Asked Questions
Click on the questions to view the answers:
[ Why has this scheme been set up? ]
[ How do I apply? ]
[ Once I have sent my application form off in the post how long will I have to wait for my card? ]
[ Whose name and photograph appears on the card? ]
[ How long is the card valid for? ]
[ Why is there a £5.50 fee to pay? ]
[ Can a cardholder have more than one card? ]
[ How many photographs should I send? ]
[ Can I send original documents and have them returned to me? ]
[ Does the card have any particular features to be aware of? ]
[ My CEA card is due to expire - what should I do? ]
Question:
Why has this scheme been set up?
Answer:
To introduce a voluntary consistent approach to the provision of concessionary tickets for carers across the cinema industry.
Question:
How do I apply?
Answer:
There are two ways to obtain an application form. Either print one from this website or collect one from a participating cinema as listed under national chains, or independently under post codes.
Question:
Once I have sent my application form off in the post how long will I have to wait for my card?
Answer:
This will depend on the following three things – the time taken for the application to arrive by post, the volume of applications being processed at the time, and the time taken for the card to arrive back by post. In general, we estimate this should be three weeks. If you do not receive your card after four weeks please contact the Card Network Team who will investigate it for you.
Question:
Whose name and photograph appears on the card?
Answer:
The card is issued to the person who requires assistance to enjoy the cinema. In this way, there is no restriction on the accompanying person, whether parent, family member, friend, care worker and so on.
Question:
How long is the card valid for?
Answer:
1 year from the date it is issued.
Question:
Why is there a £5.50 fee to pay?
Answer:
This scheme is unfunded. Every effort has been made however, to keep the processing fee as low as possible.
Question:
Can a cardholder have more than one card?
Answer:
Yes, but please note the processing fee will apply to each application.
Question:
How many photographs should I send?
Answer:
One clear photograph. Please do not send them with the word PROOF stamped across the face.
Question:
Why does the application form ask you to write the name of the applicant on the reverse of the photograph and also attach it to the form?
Answer:
If the photograph becomes separated from the application they can be matched back together easily and quickly.
Question:
What proof should I send?
Answer:
1. For Disability Living Allowance – photocopies of letters, statements, or benefit books (first two pages) confirming receipt of the allowance for the person named on the application.
2. For registered as a blind person - photocopy of certification.
Question:
Can I send original documents and have them returned to me?
Answer:
No, please send photocopies only.
Question:
I am not sure about sending personal details concerning a family member or myself. What will happen to them?
Answer:
Once we have verified the entitlement to the scheme the qualifying documents will be destroyed and securely disposed of. No file copies of documents will be held.
Question:
Does the card have any particular features to be aware of?
Answer:
Yes, it is notched along one of the short edges to aid recognition by blind or partially sighted cardholders and a reflective CEA stamped logo.
Question:
My CEA card is due to expire - what should I do?
Answer:
If you want to continue using the service you will need to reapply with a completely new application, a few weeks before your existing card expires.
Once you receive your new card you may dispose of the old one by cutting it into pieces and throwing it away. You do NOT need to return it to The Card Network.
Application forms may be collected from cinemas, or downloaded from this website.