FAQs

 

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Our quick links help you find key information quickly, so you can plan your visit with confidence.

Accessibility

Is Naidex accessible for disabled visitors?

Yes. Naidex is designed to be inclusive and accessible for all visitors. We work closely with the NEC to ensure step-free access, accessible facilities, and support services throughout the event.

For detailed venue accessibility information, visit the AccessAble NEC guide or the NEC accessibility page.

For Naidex-specific support, visit the Naidex accessibility page

What accessibility facilities are available at the NEC?

  • Step-free access throughout the venue
  • Automatic doors at main entrances
  • Accessible toilets across the site
  • Changing Places toilet located in the Atrium between Hall 19 and Hall 20, with hoist and height-adjustable bench
  • Clearly signposted lifts and accessible routes

Are BSL interpreters available?

BSL interpreters at the following theatres: Naidex Main Stage, Naidex Junior, Business without Barriers Theatre, Accessibility Hub. 

BSL interpreters outside Hall 20 entrance

Is there a Quiet Space?

Yes. A Quiet Space is available for visitors who need time away from the show environment. This calm area includes seating and tables and is open to anyone who needs a break.

📍 Location: Concourse 34, accessed via the Atrium
📌 The area is clearly signposted onsite.

Can I bring an assistance dog?

Yes, assistance dogs are very welcome.

We provide a dedicated Paws & Pause area where assistance dogs can rest, rehydrate, and access outside space.

📍 Location: Front of Hall 20, opposite the Marketplace
🚪 Toilet access located opposite the accesbile toilets 

We kindly ask that assistance dogs wear a harness, lead, or jacket where possible, and remain under control at all times.

Getting Here & Arrival

How do I get to Naidex by train

Birmingham International Railway Station is directly connected to the NEC via a covered walkway known as the Bridgelink, offering step-free access to the venue.

How do I get to Naidex by car?

The NEC is easily accessible by car and offers extensive parking facilities. For full travel and parking information, visit our Getting Here page.

Is there accessible drop-off and pick-up?

Yes. Visitors with a Blue Badge may be dropped off and picked up at the main entrances.

  • Please bring your Blue Badge with you, even if arriving by taxi
  • Inform your taxi firm in advance if you require accessible pick-up
  • Black cabs can collect from designated ranks near main entrances

Mobility Equipment Hire

Can I hire mobility equipment at the NEC?

Yes. The NEC offers mobility equipment hire on a first-come, first-served basis, with advance booking recommended.

  • Wheelchairs: £5 per hire
  • Mobility scooters: £20 per hire

Pre-booking usually opens around 3 months before the event. We strongly advise booking early as availability is limited.

📌 All pre-bookings are held until 13:00 on the booked day
📌 Payment is card only
📌 Equipment is available during show open hours only

👉 Book mobility equipment here

Food, Facilities & Comfort

What catering facilities are available?

The NEC offers a wide range of cafés, restaurants, and food outlets.

Is there seating around the show?

Yes. Seating is available throughout the venue, including quiet areas and communal spaces.

Is there a cloakroom?

Yes. Cloakrooms are located near each hall.

  • £2 per coat
  • £3 per bag
  • Open 30 minutes before show opening
  • Overnight storage is not available

Is first aid available?

Yes. First aid services are available onsite at the NEC.

Registration & Tickets

Is Naidex free to attend?

Yes - Naidex is completely free to attend.

I haven’t received my ticket. Can I still attend?

Yes. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email with a QR code. This can be scanned onsite to print your visitor badge.

If you arrive without a ticket, our registration team will be happy to help you on the day.

Do carers or PAs need a ticket?

Yes. All carers and personal assistants require their own ticket.

  • You must add a ticket for your carer. You can do this after signing yourself up on the confirmation page.
  • If details are unknown, carers can register onsite at the NEC

For ticket queries, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Children, Students & Families

Can I bring children?

Yes. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

You do not need to register anyone under the age of 16 however a child entry pass must be collected from registration desks on arrival on site.

Is Naidex suitable for students?

Yes. Students are welcome and should register via the website as normal.

Co-located Events

Naidex runs alongside:

  • Business Without Barriers
  • Neuro Rehab
  • Care & Dementia

Venue, Parking & Accommodation

Where is Naidex held?

Naidex, Naidex Junior & Business without Barries - Hall 20

Care & Dementia & Neuro Rehab - Hall 6

NEC Birmingham, B40 1NT

What time does it open?

Wednesday 25th March - 09:30am to 16:30pm
Thursday 26th March - 09:30am to 16:00pm

Is parking available?

  • Blue Badge Parking at the NEC has changed for Naidex 2026 and an ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) system will be in operation.

    Blue badge parking is still free for Naidex visitors. If you selected Blue Badge Parking upon registration, the Naidex team has sent out a batch of codes. 

    If you did not select Blue Badge Parking when registering or did not get a code pre event, please do not worry. 

    Anyone who has not prebooked will be able to validate their Blue Badge parking onsite by collecting a QR code from a member of the NEC staff and validating this at the pay on foot machines within the venue. contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. if you have any questions.

    • Please display your badge clearly on arrival
    • Onsite staff will direct you to the most suitable car park
    • Other visitors are advised to pre-book parking in advance

Where should I stay?

Our official accommodation partner, EventBeds™ by NuBreed Hotels, offers exclusive discounted rates at local hotels.

  • Save up to 30%
  • Accessible hotel options available
  • Group bookings (6+ rooms) supported here.

👉 Book via our Travel & Accommodation page

Exhibitors & Shopping

Can I buy products at the show?

Yes. Many exhibitors sell products onsite, including mobility equipment and daily living aids.

Payment methods vary by exhibitor.

Who will be exhibiting?

View the full exhibitor list here.

Can my company exhibit?

Yes. For exhibiting enquiries, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Seminars & CPD

Are seminars free to attend?

Yes. All seminars are included with your free ticket.

Do I need to book seminars?

No. Sessions operate on a first-come, first-served basis.

How long do seminars last?

Seminars last 30 minutes, there may be some longer sessions for panels

How do I claim CPD points?

Keep a note of sessions attended. After the event, CPD will email attendees to finalise certification.

📌 You must register using an individual email address.

For CPD queries, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Features

Adaptive Climbing Wall

Do I need to book?

No booking is needed - you can take part on the day. If there’s a queue, speak to the team and return at a quieter time.

The team from the Outdoor Education Company will have a quick chat and make an assessment to support you in the best way possible. This could include anything from a traditional harness with additional rope support through to a para harness suitable for wheelchair users.

Mobility Test Track

How does the Test Track work?

A selection of exhibitors take part in the Test Track, giving you the chance to try mobility equipment before you buy.

The track includes artificial off-road terrain, ramps, and obstacles to help you compare manoeuvrability, comfort, and suspension across different scooters and powerchairs—so you can get a true feel for performance.

Naidex Marketplace

What is the Marketplace?

The Marketplace is a dedicated area where you can browse and buy affordable daily living aids, tools, and practical resources to take home with you.

Recruitment Fair

What is the Recruitment Fair?

Naidex is hosting a recruitment fair at the NEC, connecting talented candidates with employers committed to inclusive hiring.

Do I need a separate ticket?

The Recruitment Fair sits within the Business Without Barriers area. All Naidex ticket holders can access the Recruitment Fair, and you can also register for Business Without Barriers if you’d like.

👉 Register here

Where can I find Patch the Naidex Junior Mascot?

Patch will be spending most of his time in the Naidex Junior & Village Green area. This is his favorite spot to hang out, watch the activities, and meet new friends.

I’m a bit nervous about meeting mascots. What should I know?

  • Patch is trained to be very calm. He won't run, make loud noises, or jump toward you.

  • Patch will never approach you or enter your personal space unless you invite him to. If you just want to wave from a distance, that is perfectly okay!

  • Patch is always accompanied by a human helper. If you feel nervous or need Patch to move further away, just let his helper know-they are there to make sure you feel safe.

  • If the area gets too busy for you, Patch takes regular breaks to rest, so there will always be times when the Village Green is mascot-free.

We can’t wait for you to meet him! Whether it’s a photo-op or a wave from across the room, Patch is here to make your Naidex experience extra memorable.

Photography & Privacy

Will photography or filming take place?

Yes. Photography and filming may take place for promotional purposes. If you do not wish to be filmed, please inform a member of staff onsite.

Visa Policy

Unfortunately, we cannot issue visa invitation letters. Your registration confirmation email should be sufficient for visa applications.