Licensees back new ID card

Licensees in Manchester have backed young cancer patients who have trouble getting into pubs and clubs by agreeing to accept special ID cards.

The scheme, dubbed 'Don't Hide, Wear With Pride', is the brainchild of 18-year-old Rebecca Smalley, who had difficulty getting into pubs and clubs in Manchester because of strict dress codes.

With the support of the Christie Hospital, a number of ID cards and posters have been produced for Manchester licensees who are willing to get on board. And it is hoped that more licensees will follow.

Jayne Kelsh, manager of the Ape and Apple on one of the 25 pubs, signed up to the scheme at the Manchester Pub and Club Network AGM earlier this month after staff from Christie Hospital appealed to licensees to recognise the ID cards.

She said: "There was one girl who had problems with her balance because of her treatment. She had been accused of being drunk and was told to leave a club even after she tried to explain. There was also a young lad who the bouncers thought was a trouble-maker because he had no hair. You just don't think about it, and we're all guilty of judging to an extent."

Ms Kelsh has put up posters in the pub letting young people know the ID cards are accepted at her premises, and has told her staff to accept them at the bar.

Lorraine Case, support co-ordinator for the Young Oncology Unit at the Christie Hospital, said: "Cancer patients cannot always adhere to dress codes because of hair loss, and have to wear a cap or bandana. They sometimes have mobility problems, for example amputations and prosthetic limbs, meaning patients have to wear trainers, not only for comfort but for safety."