The Changing Places campaign started out thanks to a group of campaigners in 2006. They saw a need for a new service for those with severe disabilities. Without a facility like this, many had to choose between:
- Leaving the house for a short period of time – because they need to get back to use their own toilet
- Leaving the house for a longer period of time and having to use a dirty public toilet. This is where some would need to be changed on the toilet floor
- Not leaving the house at all
Until the Changing Places campaign came in this was the reality for many.
Today over 250,000 people in the UK are unable to use the standard disabled toilets based on their needs. This is where the Changing Places facilities come in.
They provide 12m² floor space with a centrally located toilet that has space on either side for transfers and carers/assistants. There is a full room coverage ceiling hoist and height-adjustable sinks and adult-sized changing benches.
The BBC has spoken with families about the need for more Changing Places facilities across the UK and here is what Fiona Anderson (Bolton) and Lorna Fillingham (Normanby) had to say on the matter.
Why have a Changing Places Facility?
They are designed to enhance the overall health, safety, comfort, and dignity of those who may need extra care and support outside of the home. The Changing Places facilities don’t just offer support to the user but offer safety and support features to carers and assistants too.
What’s Happening Now?
Right now, the UK has around 1,300 Changing Places facilities dotted around the country which is a strong improvement from several years ago when they only had 130.
Unfortunately, this is simply not enough to cater to the 250,000 severely disabled citizens.
The government has now stated that Changing Places facilities are to be made compulsory for all new buildings in the UK from 2021. This means any new cinema, shopping complex, or even stadiums much install this facility as standard.
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