Changing Places toilet facilities allow people with high support needs to participate in all elements of community life, without having to limit their time out due to concerns about being able to access a suitable toilet. Diocesan Disability Coordinator, Mary Pianta fills us in.
Through a connection with Bendigo City Council, the Inclusion Officer, Sophie has advised me that many community members and organisations are not aware of, or have not accessed a key to the Bendigo Changing Places. These facilities are there to be used, so it is disappointing that information and details have not been shared or advertised to inform the locals who would qualify to have a key.
Then it came to mind that other cities or towns in our Diocese may be in a similar situation, so I started to investigate, and found that facilities are available in Echuca, Kerang, Shepparton and Yarrawonga.
Across Australia there are 259 Changing Places available to people who are travelling and have their own key. Exciting news is that grants of up to $180,000 are available to build more Changing Places across Victoria. Do the appropriate people know about these? I hope so!
These very large toilet facilities allow people with high support needs to participate in community life without concerns about toilet issues. When on holidays or touring Australia, you can access information regarding the locations of Changing Places. Having a key would take away stress when needing such a facility.
Features include:
- A height-adjustable adult-sized change table
- A ceiling track hoist system – bring a sling for that!
- A centrally located peninsula toilet
- Additional circulation space
- An automatic door with clear opening of 950mm minimum
- A privacy screen
Changing Places – locations:
- Bendigo – Hargreaves Street, near Reject Shop
- Echuca – 432 High Street, in the carpark
- Kerang – Wellington Street, in Atkinson Park
- Shepparton – Art Museum, 530 Wyndham Street
- Yarrawonga – Bank Street, on foreshore near SplashPark
If interested, or know someone who would benefit from knowing about these facilities, use the link below, then share your knowledge. There is a form to be completed to obtain a key.
People using Carer’s or Companion Cards can also submit details to check if they fit the eligibility criteria.
Eligibility:
Check eligibility | Companion Card
How to apply:
Where you can use companion cards:
Where can I use my card? | Companion Card
Mary Pianta. Disability Contact Coordinator. Diocese of Sandhurst.
