Where are Changing Places relevant?

Changing Places facilities are a vital part of creating truly inclusive spaces. Unlike standard accessible toilets, they are designed to meet the needs of individuals with profound and multiple disabilities, providing both the space and specialist equipment necessary for safe and dignified care, going beyond standard accessible toilets.

By investing in a Changing Places facility, venues of all types can enhance accessibility, welcome a wider audience, and demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity that benefits individuals, families, and society as a whole.

Changing Places offer:

  • Improved accessibility:
    Ensures your venue is welcoming to all, allowing individuals with severe disabilities to visit with dignity and comfort.
  • Stronger reputation:
    Positions your venue as inclusive and forward-thinking, strengthening your brand and setting a positive example.
  • Compliance with regulations:
    Meets growing legal requirements and accessibility standards, avoiding potential penalties and ensuring public trust.
  • Broader appeal:
    Attracts a wider audience, including families and individuals who might otherwise be unable to visit.
  • Positive Social Impact:
    Contributes to a more inclusive society, making your venue part of a broader movement toward equality and accessibility.

Below you will find a list of places where a Changing Places facility would make a difference.

Shopping centres

Shopping centres attract a diverse audience, including families and individuals with varying accessibility needs.

A Changing Places facility ensures that everyone can enjoy the shopping experience without facing barriers. It allows caregivers to provide proper assistance in a safe and hygienic environment, reducing the stress often associated with outings for families with members with disabilities.

Furthermore, by catering to everyone, shopping centres can increase their footfall and build customer loyalty, as visitors will feel valued and included.

Tourist attractions

Museums, theme parks, and other attractions are meant to provide memorable experiences for all visitors. However, without Changing Places facilities, families with family members that have complex needs may be excluded from participating.

By offering these facilities, tourist destinations ensure a more inclusive and enjoyable experience for everyone. This not only improves visitor satisfaction but also drives repeat visits, positive word-of-mouth recommendations, and favourable online reviews.

The facility enhances the venue’s reputation as a welcoming and inclusive destination for all.

Transport hubs

Transport hubs such as airports, train stations, and bus terminals are essential for enabling mobility and independence. A Changing Places facility is critical for travellers with complex needs, ensuring they can undertake journeys comfortably and with dignity.

Without such facilities, individuals with severe disabilities may face difficulties or avoid travel altogether. Including these facilities demonstrates a commitment to accessibility, helping transport hubs meet legal requirements and align with modern standards of inclusive design.

Sports and leisure facilities

Sports stadiums, leisure centres, and swimming pools aim to encourage physical activity and community engagement. By including a Changing Places facility, these venues ensure that everyone, regardless of their abilities, can participate and feel included.

This fosters a sense of equality and demonstrates that the venue values all members of the community. Additionally, offering such facilities can enhance the venue’s reputation, attract diverse audiences, and comply with regulations, especially for large events.

Educational institutions

Schools, colleges, and universities must provide equitable opportunities for learning. Including a Changing Places facility ensures that students with severe disabilities can attend without concerns about inadequate facilities. It creates an inclusive environment where all students, regardless of their physical needs, can fully engage in educational activities.

Furthermore, it reflects positively on the institution’s values, demonstrating its commitment to diversity and accessibility, which can attract more students and staff.

Public parks and community spaces

Public parks and recreational areas are important for promoting physical activity and social interaction. By adding a Changing Places facility, these spaces become accessible to all visitors, including those with complex needs, and other family members, and friends.

Families can spend more time outdoors, knowing they have the support needed. This not only fosters community inclusion but also aligns with the goals of urban planning by creating spaces that cater to everyone’s needs.

Entertainment venues

Cinemas, theatres, and concert halls are meant to be spaces where everyone can enjoy cultural and social experiences. By installing a Changing Places facility, these venues ensure that individuals with profound disabilities can attend and participate in events without barriers.

This enriches the experience for all attendees and builds a reputation for inclusivity, encouraging repeat visits and broader audience appeal.

Hotels and accomodation

Travellers with disabilities often struggle to find truly accessible accommodation. Hotels that provide Changing Places facilities offer a welcoming environment for all guests, increasing their market appeal.

Families and individuals with specific needs are more likely to choose and recommend a hotel that accommodates their requirements. This can result in higher occupancy rates and positive reviews, positioning the hotel as a leader in accessible hospitality.

Large workplaces and office buildings

Modern workplaces aim to attract and retain talent by providing inclusive environments. A Changing Places facility ensures that employees, clients, or visitors with disabilities have the necessary support.

This demonstrates the organisation’s commitment to accessibility, equality, and corporate social responsibility. It also creates a positive workplace culture, which can improve employee satisfaction, foster loyalty, and enhance the organisation’s public image.

A Changing Place facility also opens employment opportunities where they might otherwise be restricted.

Hospitals and healthcare facilities

Hospitals and clinics serve individuals with a wide range of health and mobility challenges, making Changing Places facilities essential. These facilities allow caregivers to assist patients safely, maintaining dignity during visits.

For healthcare providers, this is not only about practicality but also about showcasing a commitment to patient-centred care. A Changing Places facility reinforces the message that every individual deserves equal access to health services, regardless of their physical limitations.