JAM Card frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What is the JAM Card/JAM app?
The JAM Card is a FREE plastic card or app that helps people with hidden/invisible disabilities or a communication barrier to ask for ‘Just A Minute’ of patience and support in social or business situations. It’s easy-to-use and discreet - as our motto says: ‘You show it. They know it’.
What makes it different to other cards for people with hidden/invisible disabilities?
Unlike a lanyard which is worn all the time, JAM Card users can choose when they want to show their card or app to ask for extra time and support. But if you prefer a lanyard, relax – we also provide those too.
What will my JAM Card say?
The JAM Card says ‘Just. A. Minute’ on one side and ‘Please be patient…’ followed by whatever you choose to say about yourself on the other side. For example: ‘I have autism’, ‘I am autistic’, ‘I have ADHD’, ‘I have a learning difficulty’, ‘I have a learning disability’, ‘I have a chest/heart/stroke condition’, ‘I have dementia’.
What extras does the JAM App offer?
The JAM app lets you choose from a list of ready-made messages and you can edit your preferences at any time. If you have a condition that is not listed, please let us know and we will review your request.
Plus, its many features include a geolocation tool to help you find the best JAM Card friendly places nearby to visit.
And as a valued member of the JAM Community you can also rate and review your experiences.
Are the JAM Card and JAM app really FREE?
Yes! You can order one JAM Card FREE (including P&P) as a plastic card or download the app FREE – and you can have both if you like.
Get your JAM Card by clicking here or phoning NOW Group on +44 (0) 28 9043 6400. Download the app from the Play Store or Apple
Can I get a lanyard version of the JAM Card?
Of course – the JAM Card lanyard costs £1.90 (including P&P). Order it by clicking here
How do I use my JAM Card?
That’s easy – ‘You show it. They know it.’ If you need a little extra time and support, just show your JAM Card or Jam App to staff in any JAM Card friendly business. They will know exactly what it means and are trained to provide JAM Card users with the best customer experience.
Where can I use my JAM Card?
Use your JAM Card or JAM App in shops, cafes, restaurants, on public transport, in the workplace and many more venues and discover how it makes life less stressful.
What businesses recognise JAM Card?
Thousands of businesses, including top global brands, are now JAM Card friendly, with more big names across the UK and Ireland signing up every week.
Who uses JAM Card?
People with a hidden disability or communication barrier who want an easy and discreet way to let others know they need a little extra time and support. They include people with a learning difficulty/disability, autism, ADHD, Asperger’s and dementia.
JAM Card is also popular with those who have a chest/heart/stroke condition or who have had a head injury.
Do I need to have a diagnosis to get a JAM Card?
No, you don't need to have a diagnosis but by completing the application form you will be asked to specify why you need the JAM Card (what kind of communication barrier you have).
Who came up with the concept of a JAM Card?
JAM Card was originally developed by and for people with learning disabilities and difficulties at NOW Group, a multi-award-winning social enterprise based in Belfast. It has proved so popular as an inclusivity tool that there are now 180,000 Card and app users worldwide.
What are the benefits of becoming a JAM Card friendly business?
It’s great for your customers, your employees and your turnover.
Our online training quickly upskills your team to give them a competitive edge when it comes to the ‘Purple Pound’ - shoppers with disabilities. A positive experience will boost customer loyalty – and make them more likely to recommend you to others.
Knowing how to be inclusive and show respect and empathy to colleagues with hidden disabilities will also make your own workplace happier and more productive.
You will build your reputation as a socially responsible brand that ‘gives back’ to the local community.
You’ll be entitled to display JAM Card signage to show that you are a member of the global JAM Card Community. Your company will feature prominently on the JAM Card app and website, be tagged as a JAM Card friendly company and have the opportunity to promote its services to JAM Card users.
How many of my customers are likely to have a JAM Card?
A lot! An estimated one in six people have some form of disability – and for many people that takes the form of a hidden/invisible disability.
How much time will it take for my employees to complete JAM Card training?
We know your organisation is busy so we have designed our online training to be fast, efficient and effective.
How do I become a JAM Card friendly business?
Companies can sign up online for access to JAM Card training or can contact the NOW Group team by phone +44 (0) 28 9043 6400 or email: hello@jamcard.org by completing the contact form on this website for more information.
