513 new Changing Places toilets to be funded by the government
Changing Places UK have been campaigning since 2005 to have Changing Places toilets installed in all big public spaces so peoples can access their community.
Over 250 thousand people in the UK need Changing Places Toilets to enable them to enjoy the day-to-day activities which many of us take for granted. To use a toilet in safety and comfort, these people need to be able to access a toilet which has more space and the right equipment, including a height adjustable changing bench, a peninsular toilet and a celling hoist. There are currently just over 1,300 registered Changing Places toilets in England.
The good news is that the UK Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities has allocated £23.5 million worth of funding to 191 councils which will see 513 new Changing Place toilets installed across England. There is a further £6.5 million which will be allocated to councils in a further round later this year and will focus on areas where there is little or no Changing Places toilet provision.
Ministerial Disability Champion Eddie Hughes MP said:
“People with severe disabilities and their families or carers should not have to think about whether there are suitable toilet facilities when they go out shopping, plan a day out or travel.
“That is why it is great to hear that our funding will help provide over 500 new Changing Places Toilets in England enabling them to go about day-to-day activities like the rest of the population with more dignity and freedom.“