Changing Places Facilities
Changing Places facilities are different from standard accessible toilets. They have many features and additional equipment that make them more accessible than standard accessible toilets. Changing Places facilities provide a minimum of 12m² of clear space and include both a full room coverage ceiling track hoist and a centrally located toilet with space on either side for assisted transfers and dignity-adjustable adult changing bench.
Changing Places facilities are designed to enhance the health, safety, comfort and dignity of someone who may need extra support and additional equipment during personal care tasks. Changing Places facilities also offer added safety and support features for assistants.
Why Changing Places are needed
Standard accessible toilets do not meet the needs of all people with complex disabilities. For example, individuals with conditions such as cerebral palsy, spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, and older people with physical disabilities may need specialist equipment and facilities to enable them to use the toilet, wash, and manage independence and comfort.
Sadly, many people with disabilities have to go through the indignity and unhygienic option of being changed on the floor of a public toilet due to the absence of appropriate facilities. Changing Places facilities address this issue by providing the correct facilities and accessible public spaces.
Changing Places Ireland
Changing Places Ireland is a nationwide initiative whose aim is to increase the provision of Changing Places facilities in public spaces throughout Ireland. Thousands of people need Changing Places facilities to enable them to get out and about and enjoy the day-to-day activities that many of us take for granted.
To find out more about Changing Places in Ireland, visit the Changing Places website: https://changingplaces.ie/
