Abstract: An access management system for managing access of wireless terminals to a wireless communications network. The access management system comprises an access control unit for permitting use of the network by a wireless terminal; an access element arranged to provide access to the network for the wireless terminal if use is permitted by the access control unit; and a network means configured to receive and store information indicating that the wireless terminal is permitted to use the network. The network means is arranged to, if the access element is unable to provide the wireless terminal with access to the network, use the stored information to determine that the wireless terminal is permitted to use the network and, having so determined, provide an alternative access to the network for the wireless terminal.