Changing Places facility at Eden Project

A new Changing Places facility has opened at the Eden Project and we think we can confidently say it's the brightest, zingiest Changing Places the world has seen. With bright orange walls, pictures and wine red floor it brings festive touches to the world of accessible design. There's not a hint of beige here.

We're delighted to have worked with Eden on the Changing Places project - we have a design that is joyful as well as functional and shows that great design and accessible buildings do go hand in hand. A great day at Eden is now open to people who face the toughest barriers to getting out and about. The new facility means that people with profound and multiple disabilities can go out for the day, not just to Eden but elsewhere in the area too.

Rachel George, who visits Eden regularly with her four-year-old disabled son Adam, said: “A facility like this makes the difference between visiting somewhere for a couple of hours and being able to stay for a day. It’s fabulous.”

(back row from left) Henry Scrase from Cornwall People First, Nicky Haydney, Andria Roe, outreach worker for the Parent Carer Council, Vicki Allan, Cornwall Council’s disabled children short break development manager, Rachel George (front row from left) Richard Jones, Adam George.

Changing Places toilets are different to standard accessible toilets with extra features and more space to meet the needs of people with profound and multiple learning disabilities and their carers. It includes a height adjustable changing bench, a hoist system, shower and space for a disabled person and up to two carers. The 13-square metre amenity at Eden has been funded by the Aiming High programme through Cornwall Council. It is open to Eden visitors, staff and the general public.

The basin is a good size, has an easy to use lever tap, good contrast with the wall and adjustable height	The changing table is easy to use with adjustable height and remote control	The hoist has a remote control and is on a multi-track so it can move anywhere in the room

Tony Kendle, Eden's Foundation Director, said: “It has always been our ambition to make Eden as accessible as we can to anyone who wants to come. Thanks to the work of our very dedicated staff who really believe in this issue and partnerships with Cornwall Council, the Sensory Trust and the Changing Places campaign, we’re really pleased that we’ve been able to make this important step forward.”

The existance of these facilities in public places around the country is thanks to the great work of the Changing Places Consortium. We hope this will inspire others to follow suit.

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