Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals (DBTH) opened its first ‘Changing Places’ facility on Friday 21 September 2018 at Bassetlaw Hospital.
Located in the Outpatient Department, ‘Changing Places’ is a facility for anyone with a complex health issue who cannot use a standard disabled toilet as they require extra equipment and space. The room features a height adjustable adult changing bed, an electronic ceiling hoist, height adjustable sink, peninsular toilet, shower, non-slip floor and privacy screen.
This facility has been championed by local mum Alison Beevers, whose son, Mylor, now 12, was born prematurely and is quadriplegic and has cerebral palsy. Alison, who worked with hospital bosses on the design and requirements of the room, said: “I’m absolutely delighted the hospital now provides a Changing Places facility for patients and visitors. This fantastic new addition will help disabled and elderly patients who need assistance to be able to use a toilet safely and with dignity.”
“People with complex health needs visit hospitals regularly so a Changing Place will make an enormous difference and will help to alleviate any additional stress people may feel when visiting. I’m very grateful for the support the hospital has shown our campaign, as a mum of a child who has complex health needs I have first-hand experience of the problems getting out and about without adequate assistive toilets. I believe hospitals are the most natural and important setting for these facilities.”
The facility, which will meet the needs of people with profound and multiple learning disabilities, motor neurone disease, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, as well as older people who may need assistance, allowing them to use the toilet facilities safely and comfortably. Over 250,000 people in the UK need Changing Places toilets to enable them to get out and about.
Suzy Brain England OBE, Chair of the Board, said: “I am delighted the Trust now has this important facility for our patients, their carers and visitors. This facility brings peace of mind when visiting for hospital appointments safe in the knowledge there is a safe place to change. Without Changing Places individuals are often forced to change in inappropriate places which can be both undignified and challenging. I am also very pleased to announce that work on a similar facility at Doncaster Royal Infirmary begins in January 2019. Thank you to Alison for her support and guidance throughout this project.”
To find your nearest Changing Places, go to: http://changingplaces.uktoiletmap.org