A Changing Places toilet provides equipment, space and facilities (including hoist and adult-sized changing bench) for persons with disabilities who need assistance and cannot use standard accessible toilets. Changing Places toilets should be provided in addition to standard accessible toilets.

Changing Places include special equipment such as a height-adjustable changing bench and a hoist, offer adequate space in the changing area for up to two carers, and provide a centrally-placed toilet with room on either side for the carers. There are also mobile Changing Places toilets available to rent for large and small events.

The Changing Places Consortium is campaigning to build more accessible toilets in all major public places, including city centres, shopping centres, arts venues, hospitals, motorway service stations, leisure complexes, large railway stations, airports etc. Changing Places toilets are different to standard disabled toilets – they include special equipment such as a height-adjustable changing bench and a hoist, offer adequate space in the changing area for up to two carers, and provide a centrally-placed toilet with room on either side for the carers.

Problems Targeted

The absence of suitable toilets means that persons with disabilities who need assistance cannot take part in many activities like shopping, going to a park or a show. Without a suitable changing bench and hoist, many persons with disabilities have to be laid on unhygienic toilet floors.

Solution, Innovation and Impact

Campaign to provide accessible toilets in public places

Pictures

Changing Places toilets are different to standard disabled toilets – they include special equipment and are spacious.