02 August 2022 | T-IPS Washrooms
Changing Places Toilets
Think about an everyday activity; popping to the shops, visiting a park, going for a walk, meeting with a friend. These are all things we do without a second thought. However, for over ¼ million people, these things are not possible without the provision of a Changing Places toilet.
What exactly are Changing Places Toilets?Changing Places toilets differ from standard accessible toilets. Standard accessible toilets do not meet the needs of all people with a disability − or their carers. Therefore, Changing Places toilets are equipped with extra features to meet the needs of those with profound and multiple learning disabilities and other severe impairments. Impairments such as spinal injuries, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis or an acquired brain injury. These people often need extra facilities to allow them to use the toilets comfortably and maintain their dignity.
Each Changing Places toilet provides:
The right equipment:
- a height adjustable adult-sized changing bench
- a tracking hoist system, or mobile hoist if this is not possible.
- adequate space in the changing area for the disabled person and up to two carers
- a centrally placed toilet with room either side for the carers
- a screen or curtain to allow the disabled person and carer some privacy
- wide tear off paper roll to cover the bench
- a large waste bin for disposable pads
- a non-slip floor.
So, where should Changing Places amenities be provided?
Changing Places amenities should be in areas where many people might visit for more than a few hours at a time. Some examples are outlined below:
- sport and leisure facilities
- museums, concert arenas, art galleries, theatres
- shopping centres
- town halls, civic centres, public libraries
- educational institutions