Changing Places Toilets: Capital Funding — [Sir Alec Shelbrooke in the Chair]

The Chair informed colleagues that the next speaker is recovering from an operation and indicated willingness to allow them to deliver their speech while sedentary.

She thanked the hon. Member for Bexleyheath and Crayford for securing the debate, highlighted the importance of Changing Places toilets for disabled individuals, and shared a story from her constituency about how such facilities have positively impacted a family named Radhika and Shyam. She noted that Chester Zoo's initiative to increase Changing Places toilets demonstrates forward-thinking approach in ensuring accessibility and dignity for those with disabilities.

Jim Shannon expressed concern about the lack of Changing Places toilets in Northern Ireland, which leaves thousands of people reliant on these facilities unable to leave their homes for long periods without facing degrading situations. He highlighted that four out of five hospitals in Northern Ireland do not have registered Changing Places facilities and urged for dedicated ringfenced resources to expand their network.

Ms Campbell highlighted the need for Changing Places toilets, noting that only two such facilities exist in her constituency of Broxtowe despite a high demand from disabled people. She emphasised the impact of inaccessible public restrooms on social isolation and mental health among those with severe disabilities.

Congratulated the hon. Member for Bexleyheath and Crayford on securing the debate, highlighted personal encounters with constituents who face difficulties due to a lack of Changing Places facilities, and detailed actions taken by the government including setting up the £30 million Changing Places fund which has led to nearly 500 new facilities across the country. Emphasized the importance of continuing efforts to install more Changing Places facilities as over 249,000 people rely on them. Expressed gratitude to Daniel Francis and thanked the Minister for her considered response. Hoped that she would continue championing this cause in Government.

There are now 2,665 registered Changing Places toilets across the United Kingdom compared with around 140 in 2007. However, the job is not finished as there are still too many areas without a Changing Places toilet and provision is uneven. The main barrier to installing these facilities is cost, often tens of thousands of pounds per installation. The Minister acknowledged that the Changing Places fund was closed, but asked why this important human dignity facility fund was cut. She also pointed out a dilemma for local authorities who are required to provide essential services such as children's and adult social care, yet public toilets remain optional.