What is a Changing Places facility?

Changing Places toilets are enhanced accessible facilities designed for people with profound and multiple learning disabilities, complex disabilities, or significant mobility needs. They go beyond standard accessible toilets by providing the space and equipment required for safe, dignified personal care.

Typical features include:

  • A height-adjustable changing bench
  • A ceiling track hoist (or mobile hoist where appropriate)
  • A peninsular WC with space for carers on both sides
  • A privacy screen/curtain
  • A washbasin positioned for easy access
  • Non-slip flooring, robust finishes, and clear circulation space

Why “turnkey” matters

A Changing Places project isn’t just a bathroom fit-out. It’s a specialist environment that needs careful planning, reliable coordination, and correct installation.

A turnkey approach means one team takes responsibility for the entire process:

  • Survey and feasibility
  • Layout design and equipment specification
  • Building works and enabling works
  • Mechanical and electrical coordination
  • Waterproofing and finishes
  • Testing, commissioning, and handover

The result is fewer delays, fewer handoffs, and a smoother route to a compliant, usable facility.

Why York is a strong candidate for Changing Places provision

York attracts high footfall from residents, commuters, students, and visitors. For venues and public-facing organisations, a Changing Places facility can be the difference between someone being able to spend time in the city comfortably or having to cut a visit short.

Common York-based settings where Changing Places can make a real impact:

  • Shopping centres and retail parks
  • Visitor attractions and museums
  • Transport hubs and park & ride sites
  • Leisure centres and sports venues
  • Theatres, arenas, and large event spaces
  • Universities, colleges, and large schools
  • Hospitals and community health facilities

Our turnkey process (end-to-end)

1) Site survey and feasibility

We start with an on-site assessment in York to confirm:

  • Available space and access routes
  • Structural considerations for hoist tracking
  • Existing drainage, water supply, and ventilation
  • Fire strategy, signage, and safeguarding requirements

We’ll also discuss expected usage and the type of users the facility needs to support.

2) Layout and specification

Changing Places rooms need the right balance of space, safety, and practicality. We develop a layout that supports good carer access and safe transfers, then specify equipment and finishes that stand up to heavy use.

This typically includes:

  • Hoist system design (track layout, fixing strategy, loading considerations)
  • Changing bench position and safe working clearances
  • WC placement and support rails
  • Slip resistance and easy-clean wall/floor finishes
  • Lighting, ventilation, and emergency assistance alarms

3) Enabling works and build

Depending on the building, we may need to complete enabling works such as:

  • Forming new openings/door widths
  • Adjusting partitions to achieve the required room size
  • Upgrading drainage runs and floor build-ups
  • Improving ventilation and electrical capacity

We then complete the full build, coordinating trades so the project moves efficiently.

4) Installation, testing, and handover

We install the specialist equipment, complete snagging, and carry out functional testing. At handover, we provide:

  • Operating guidance for the venue team
  • Maintenance expectations and recommended inspection routines
  • A clear finish standard that’s easy to keep clean and safe

Key considerations for a successful Changing Places project

  • Space planning: The room must allow safe transfers and carer access
  • Structural integrity: Hoist tracks require correct fixing into suitable structure
  • Durability: High-use environments need robust, repairable finishes
  • Cleaning and maintenance: Easy-clean surfaces and sensible detailing reduce downtime
  • User dignity: Privacy, lighting, and layout choices make a big difference

The benefits for venues and organisations

Installing a Changing Places facility can:

  • Improve accessibility for a wider range of people
  • Support carers and families with safer, more dignified options
  • Increase dwell time and visitor confidence
  • Demonstrate meaningful commitment to inclusion
  • Reduce risk by providing an appropriate environment for personal care

Planning a turnkey Changing Places facility in York?

If you’re exploring a Changing Places installation in York, we can help you scope the project, confirm feasibility, and deliver the full design-and-build package.

Share your venue type, available space, and timescales, and we’ll advise on the best route forward including layout, equipment, and build approach.