what is hynt? Hynt is a national access scheme that works with theatres and arts centres in Wales to make sure there is a consistent offer available for visitors with an impairment or specific access requirement, and their Carers or Personal Assistants. The website will tell you all you need to know about Hynt: who it’s for; what it provides; and how to become a member (only valid in Wales – but think people who visit centres in Wales can apply if you meet the eligibility criteria) If you need support or assistance to attend a performance at a theatre or arts centre then you may be eligible to join hynt and then a carer or personal assistant has free admission to the same performance as you to help you as necessary (like the CEA cinema card but no administrative charges with this one and apparently valid for 5years) Currently 31 venues listed on the website including Theatr Clwyd, Venue Cymru and the Millenium Stadium. HYNT is free to join – no administration charges as with the CEA card – but you do need proof of eligibility and a passport style photo to apply. eligibility criteria and supporting evidence As part of the Hynt application process, you will need to include evidence demonstrating that you or the person you are completing the application for meets the eligibility criteria: • Enhanced or Standard PIP Daily Living Component • High or Middle rate DLA Care Component • High Rate Attendance Allowance • Certificate of Visual Impairment • War Disablement Pension • Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP) • Direct Payments • Social Services Care Package • Continuous Healthcare Package • Dual Sensory impairment You will need to send us some paperwork confirming that you, or the person you are applying for are in receipt of one of the benefits listed in our criteria; we need to see a copy of one of the following documents: •
A letter from the Department of Work and Pensions that confirms that you or the person you are applying for is in receipt of one of the benefits listed in the criteria • A letter from the relevant Local Authority confirming that you or the person you are applying for is in receipt of Social Services Care Package, Continuing Healthcare Package or registered for Direct Payments • A Certificate of Visual Impairment
Application can be by post or email – I know this isn’t for everyone and that a lot of places accept other forms of proof of eligibility to give discounts or free tickets for carers but this card does make the booking process easier in centres it is valid in so hope it helps someone – thought it may be good for panto’ visits at Christmas as my local theatre usually put on a really good one! It is similar to the CEA cinema card but there is no charge for this one and it is valid for 5 years - I did post this a good while back but thought it worth reposting as it may help someone.
5 comments
amour3k
28 Jul 17#1
OP .. "similar to the CEA card"?
That's both a yes, and a no?, hehehe, as the CEA card you need to pay for ...
Whereas the Wale's equivalent HYNT card you don't?, lol.
But a VERY COOL freebie to be had though?, for those that can get of course etc etc? (London, take note ... ) :-)
damster
28 Jul 17#2
You don't need the card to obtain a free carer ticket. Awfully run scheme, despite huge issues regarding eligibility. Have failed to listen to concerns brushing aside complaints of flaws in the application process. Fundamentally flawed arbitration process should you not automatically meet the criteria.
Just explain why you need a carer to a theatre, ask for a "reasonable adjustment" generally ensures you will receive a career ticket free.
Also check to see if local councils have better run schemes for regional theatres. Some are easier to apply for.
scoffer1
28 Jul 171#3
I had no difficulty getting the Hynt card - application IO thought was easy and the card came quickly so sorry you had difficulty Damster. The two theatres within easy travelling distance accept the card with no issues and have registered it to me so easy to make telephone bookings. I find it easy to show the card rather than having to take other documentation but agree most places will give concessions for carers if you ask. I have used it in England too and have had it accepted as proof of eligibility. Amour 3k - I actually think it's better than the CEA card as I prefer the theatre and the card is free!
damster to scoffer1
29 Jul 17#4
Thank you. There are two issues regarding the scheme that are problematic. They dont take the mobility component as a qualifying criteria. Which is extremely short-sighted as mobility, does also include a care and companion element to it. Forcing people who have low DLA care rate, or Standard or Enhanced mobility. To have to go through a wholly inappropriate arbitration process. Which they know isn't fit for purpose, having to lay down in great detail why they need a carer. Despite having mobility and low care component demonstrating the need for one. Then there is the issue of people who do not receive any disability benefit whatsoever having to get letters from GP's who will charge for them. If they will provide one in the first place. No system is perfect but there are so many flaws. Did challenge them but they believe their model is right, despite other institutions providing guidance it isn't. Good to let people know :smile:
scoffer1
29 Jul 17#5
I agree - the mobility component of PIP etc should be taken into consideration - would it be worth contacting the Welsh Arts Council regarding this to see if there is anything they can do to address what is a failing as mobility can be a major barrier to access if a carer isn't present to assist.
Opening post
Hynt is a national access scheme that works with theatres and arts centres in Wales to make sure there is a consistent offer available for visitors with an impairment or specific access requirement, and their Carers or Personal Assistants. The website will tell you all you need to know about Hynt: who it’s for; what it provides; and how to become a member (only valid in Wales – but think people who visit centres in Wales can apply if you meet the eligibility criteria)
If you need support or assistance to attend a performance at a theatre or arts centre then you may be eligible to join hynt and then a carer or personal assistant has free admission to the same performance as you to help you as necessary (like the CEA cinema card but no administrative charges with this one and apparently valid for 5years)
Currently 31 venues listed on the website including Theatr Clwyd, Venue Cymru and the Millenium Stadium.
HYNT is free to join – no administration charges as with the CEA card – but
you do need proof of eligibility and a passport style photo to apply.
eligibility criteria and supporting evidence As part of the Hynt application process, you will need to include evidence demonstrating that you or the person you are completing the application for meets the eligibility criteria:
• Enhanced or Standard PIP Daily Living Component
• High or Middle rate DLA Care Component
• High Rate Attendance Allowance
• Certificate of Visual Impairment
• War Disablement Pension
• Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP)
• Direct Payments
• Social Services Care Package
• Continuous Healthcare Package
• Dual Sensory impairment
You will need to send us some paperwork confirming that you, or the person
you are applying for are in receipt of one of the benefits listed in our criteria; we need to see a copy of one of the following documents: •
A letter from the Department of Work and Pensions that confirms that
you or the person you are applying for is in receipt of one of the benefits listed in the criteria • A letter from the relevant Local Authority confirming that you or the person you are applying for is in receipt of Social Services Care Package, Continuing Healthcare Package or registered for Direct Payments
• A Certificate of Visual Impairment
Application can be by post or email – I know this isn’t for everyone and that a
lot of places accept other forms of proof of eligibility to give
discounts or free tickets for carers but this card does make the booking
process easier in centres it is valid in so hope it helps someone – thought it may be good for panto’ visits at Christmas as my local theatre usually put on a really good one! It is similar to the CEA cinema card but there is no charge for this one and it is valid for 5 years - I did post this a good while back but thought it worth reposting as it may help someone.
5 comments
That's both a yes, and a no?, hehehe, as the CEA card you need to pay for ...
Whereas the Wale's equivalent HYNT card you don't?, lol.
But a VERY COOL freebie to be had though?, for those that can get of course etc etc? (London, take note ... ) :-)
Just explain why you need a carer to a theatre, ask for a "reasonable adjustment" generally ensures you will receive a career ticket free.
Also check to see if local councils have better run schemes for regional theatres. Some are easier to apply for.