2024 marks a significant milestone for inclusivity as the ifse team proudly unveils its first-ever Changing Places Toilet (CPT) installation at Café Hope, a public café located at the entrance to the Salvation Army Territorial Headquarters, just south of the Thames.
This CPT was installed as part of our wide refurbishment project for the Salvation Army where we installed ‘Café Hope’ – a community hub and remote-work haven serving the best teas, coffees and homemade cakes, with every penny spent helping to support job seekers in the local area.
This transformative initiative demonstrates our unwavering commitment to inclusivity and our profound recognition of the wide-ranging needs of users of the catering facilities we design.
Understanding Changing Places Toilets (CPTs)
A Changing Places Toilet (CPT) represents a major development in restroom accessibility. Featuring a spacious design with ample room on either side for wheelchair users, complemented by wall-mounted vertical grab rails and drop-down support rails, these facilities ensure comfort, safety, and dignity for all users.
For example, our recent installation at the Salvation Army showcases a wide range of features, including:
- Ceiling Track Hoist
- Electric height-adjustable basin
- Electric height-adjustable changing bench
- Palma Vita Automatic wash dry wc
- Additional support fixtures
Who Are Changing Places?
Since its establishment in 2005, the Changing Places Consortium has spearheaded a collective effort to champion the rights of individuals with disabilities. Serving as the home of the Changing Places Campaign in the UK, this consortium comprises various organizations and advocates committed to fostering inclusivity.
At its core, the campaign advocates for the widespread adoption of Changing Places toilets in major public spaces, ensuring unhindered community access for all individuals.
The Importance of CPTs
With over 250,000 individuals in the UK reliant on Changing Places Toilets for their daily activities, the necessity for these facilities cannot be overstated. Mobility challenges require toilets equipped with ample space and essential fittings, enabling individuals to navigate public spaces with comfort and safety.
We strongly encourage all organizations, especially those in the hospitality sector, to consider integrating Changing Places Toilets into their establishments. By embracing inclusivity, not only do businesses uphold principles of equality and make life considerably easier for those living with disabilities, but they also tap into a more diverse customer base which can only be good for business, fostering growth and sustainability.
Conclusion
In championing Changing Places Toilets, we pave the way for a more inclusive society where every individual can participate fully in community life. To discover your nearest CPT or learn more about the Changing Places initiative, visit changing-places.org.
This CPT was installed as part of our wide refurbishment project for the Salvation Army where we installed ‘Café Hope’ – a community hub and remote-work haven based within the Salvation Army’s Territorial Headquarters, serving the best teas, coffees and homemade cakes.
Take a look at some snaps from our latest installation for Salvation Army below:
