18 Jul 2024
Today is Changing Places Awareness Day and we’re pleased to announce that we’ve installed new Changing Place Toilets across the network making travel more accessible and comfortable for everyone.
What are Changing Places Toilets?
These specially equipped restrooms go beyond standard accessible toilets. They offer increased space and essential equipment to meet the needs of individuals with profound and multiple learning disabilities or with physical disabilities such as spinal injuries, muscular dystrophy and multiple sclerosis.
All of our Changing Places have the right equipment, including a changing bench and a hoist, designed to support disabled people who need assistance.
Where can I find a Changing Place?
We’ve installed 10 Changing Place Toilets across the railway network, including:
- Aberystwyth
- Bangor
- Bridgend
- Carmarthen
- Chester
- Llandudno
- Port Talbot Parkway
- Rhyl
- Shrewsbury
- Swansea
The newest addition of the Changing Places facilities has been installed at our new Cardiff Bus Interchange.
Dr Robert Gravelle, TfW Multi Modal Access & Inclusion said:
“The opportunity for the disabled community to access equivalent safe and high-quality changing places toilets away from home is critical.
“TfW is committed to increase the availability of these important community facilities across the whole TfW network. Supporting our customer's independence, not only in their use of our widening transport network; but in recognition of the benefits Changing Places Toilets deliver in respect of inclusion and opportunities for socialising, education and employment.”
Alun from TfWs Accessibility Panel added;
“Changing Places Toilets provide ample room and include a peninsular toilet (a toilet with space on both sides to allow movement from a wheelchair or assistance from a carer), changing bench, ceiling hoist, height adjusters, and grab rails.
It is estimated that a quarter of a million people in the UK depend on Changing Place toilets to travel in comfort and safety. They are especially important for people needing to change incontinence pads and deal with stomas and ensure that young people and adults can be supported with their toileting needs without the 'indignity' of being forced to use baby changing facilities.”
