Nusrat Ghani, MP for Wealden, has welcomed the announcement that Wealden District Council has been allocated funding to secure more Changing Places toilets, an initiative she championed during her time as Transport Minister.
Changing Places toilets are larger accessible toilets for people who cannot use standard accessible facilities, with equipment such as hoists, curtains, adult-sized changing benches, and space for carers. These facilities are vital for people unable to use standard accessible toilets and for their family and carers.
As part of the ambitious Inclusive Transport Strategy, Nusrat secured Changing Places toilets to 22 motorway service stations across the UK during her time as Transport Minister, helping ensure that everyone can use our roads easily and comfortably.
Through the Changing Places Fund, the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities is now making up to £30 million available to local authorities to boost the provision of Changing Places toilets in existing buildings. Every local authority that submitted an eligible expression of interest has received at least £40,000 in funding and Wealden District Council is set to receive £98,300.
Nusrat Ghani said: “Where people shop, go out, or travel should not be determined by their disability. Many disabled people across the UK do not have access to public toilet facilities that meet their needs, and the provision of Changing Places toilets is vital for people who cannot use standard accessible toilets. I am delighted that Wealden has been allocated this funding to deliver more Changing Places locally and help make the country more inclusive for disabled people.”