PEOPLE with disabilities, their families and carers are being encouraged to make use of Tavistock’s ‘life-changing’ new Changing Places town centre toilet.

The facilities, at Abbey Rise, off Whitchurch Road, were opened by Devon County Council and is one of a network of 40 across the South West, providing a vital lifeline to those with profound and multiple disabilities.

Thousands of people across the UK cannot use standard accessible toilets without support from carers — and most standard toilets are too small to accommodate more than one person with families often forced to change their daughter or son on a toilet floor.

Changing Places toilets are different to standard disabled toilets with extra features and more space to meet these needs.

Tavistock’s Changing Places toilet has a shower, adjustable changing bench and sink, hoist, enough space for the disabled person, their wheelchair and two carers and a privacy screen.

Assistant manager for learning disabilities day service Rachel Dodd said: ‘For carers and family members looking after people with severe physical disabilities, it really is a life changer.

‘Imagine going out for the day and having to cut a trip short because of concerns about the availability of suitable toilet facilities.

‘Now with a growing network of Changing Places families can better plan shopping trips, days out and even holidays, knowing where each facility is.

‘It’s a wonderful facility. It ensures people can be changed with dignity; it improves the quality of life for some of the most disabled in our community.

‘All they require is a radar key and their own sling if using the hoist. Tavistock should be proud to have it and I urge more people to make use of it.’

The toilet is located on the ground floor, in the front corner of the Abbey Rise Day Centre building, closest to the road.

During business hours, Monday to Friday, the toilet is part of the Learning Disability Service which access the Changing Places toilet from within the building. 

Out of hours, the toilet is given over to full public access.