UK biggest survey launched to find out where Changing Places facilities are most needed
Changing Places is calling on people to add their voice to the UK’s biggest consultation about its vital accessible toilet facilities by participating in a 10-minute survey.
Different from standard accessible toilets, without access to Changing Places toilets many people have to stay at home, limit fluid intake before going out, or have to be changed on a dirty toilet floor.
Aimed at people who use Changing Places toilets, or need to use them, the survey will help to inform where, and in which buildings, its facilities are needed the most in England.
The survey can be completed here and closes on 23 April 2021.
Muscular Dystrophy UK (MDUK) is working with the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) to help identify how best to direct the £30 million of Government funding, first announced in the March 2020 budget, to install more Changing Places toilets in existing buildings around England.
Karen Hoe, MDUK Changing Places Manager, said: “We need you to share your experience and insight to help inform where, and in which kinds of buildings, these toilets are needed.
“There are currently only 1,500 Changing Places toilets in the UK, while we know more than a quarter of a million disabled people rely on them so they can work, travel, explore and have fun.”
Luke Hall MP, Regional Growth Minister, added: “For too long, the lack of suitable toilet facilities has meant disabled people have faced major difficulties when they shop, go out, or travel, and this should not be the case.
“The significant investment of £30 million from government and our charity partnership with Muscular Dystrophy UK will help bring major, life-enhancing freedoms to those people who have specific needs.
“I encourage Changing Places toilet users, their carers and families to complete the survey to ensure we can identify how to make best use of the funding available to benefit those who need it most.”
MDUK have confirmed that there will be focus group meetings running alongside the survey during April, to assess where the needs are the greatest. It also confirmed that local authorities will have the opportunity to bid for the funding.
There are currently around 1,200 registered Changing Places toilets in England but provision needs to increase quickly to improve access for people who cannot use standard accessible toilets and their carers.
