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It is hoped the funding will help improve access for people who cannot use standard accessible toilets, the money will be used to install Changing Places facilities in existing buildings throughout England.

The Government’s Regional Growth Minister, Luke Hall, announced the £30 million fund following changes to statutory guidance that came into effect from January 2021, that certain new buildings must have a Changing Places toilet. These toilets are larger than standard accessible facilities and for people who need additional help, as they include equipment including hoists, curtains, adult sized changing benches and space for carers. Currently, there are around 1,200 registered Changing places toilets in England, but increased provision is needed.

According to statistics, over 250,000 people in the UK would benefit from these facilities. The combination of the updated statutory guidance and the further £30 million investment for existing buildings means that thousands of people with complex needs will have greater access to public places. In addition, local councils will be invited to opt in to bid for a portion of the funding so they can install facilities in their communities and boost the number of Changing Places toilets in existing buildings including leisure centres and arts venues. This will help improve the geographical spread of the facilities across England and ensure that more disabled people can take part in every day activities that have the greatest impact on their quality of life.

The programme will be delivered in partnership with the charity Muscular Dystrophy UK, co-chairs of the Changing Places Consortium who will provide advice to support councils in their delivery.

Speaking about the new funding, Changing Places campaigner, Kerry Thompson, said: “The biggest challenge I face when going anywhere outside my home is locating a Changing Places facility. They really do make a world of difference when planning days out so this announcement will open up a whole new world for hundreds of thousands of people who rely on them. This wouldn’t be possible without support from Muscular Dystrophy UK, co-chairs of the Changing Places Consortium.

“Knowing I have access to a Changing Places toilet lets me enjoy myself without having to worry about finding an accessible facility that can accommodate my needs. The additional funding from the government to improve facilities in existing buildings across England will give me and my husband the freedom that so many disabled people are desperate for.”

The Regional Growth Minister, Luke Hall MP, told reporters: “For too long the lack of suitable toilet facilities has meant disabled people have faced major difficulties when the shop, go out or travel and this should not be the case. That’s why the provision of Changing Places toilets is so important for people who cannot use standard access toilets.
“This programme is a significant investment from government that will help bring major, life enhancing freedoms to those people who have specific needs.”

You can find your nearest registered Changing Places toilet in the UK by going to their website and using their location map.

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