People with profound disabilities and complex needs will have greater freedom and independence with the development of five new Changing Places Toilets (CPT) across Dumfries and Galloway.
Backed by a total Scottish Government investment of £10 million into The Changing Places Scotland Fund between 2025-27, £4.7 million has been allocated this year to help individuals, families and carers across the country to take part in everyday activities and community life.
Further awards being considered from this first applications round will be confirmed early in the New Year and a second applications round of funding open in 2026-27.
CPTs offer a vital facility for disabled people and their families and carers whose needs cannot be met through standard accessible toilet provision.
This includes people with profound or multiple disabilities, people with muscular dystrophy, older people, veterans, people who require the use of a larger wheelchair and people who require a calm and quiet environment.
The Eskdale Foundation receives £40,000 to build next to the current public toilet at the north end of Langholm to ensure the needs of people with disabilities can be met with dignity and so they can make the most of the community.
Craigs House is awarded £85,249 to site a toilet on the smallholding in Dumfries surrounded by buildings used for animal interactions and nature activities. Buildings are used for events, training, peer support and networking and skills development.
Happy Hooves in Sanquhar will use £90,021 to build a CPT at the outdoor riding arena.
A Patch Ae Land receives £92,066 to build a CPT in the community garden to benefit any individual with complex disabilities in North West Dumfries, ensuring the area is inclusive, welcoming, and safe for everyone.
The final new CPT will be at Summerhill Community Centre with £105,593 helping to make sure the centre in Dumfries provides a holistic approach to community involvement, empowerment and participation. The Environmental Umbrella Project enables a wide variety of outdoor activities and settings.
CPTs have key features which distinguish them from standard accessible toilets. They:
- offer adequate space (at least 12m2) for a disabled person when they are not in their wheelchair, as well as space for their wheelchair to turn, and one or two carers.
- have an adult-sized, height-adjustable changing bench to allow people to lie down to have their personal care needs met.
- have a ceiling hoist to lift people out of their wheelchair safely
- have a centrally placed peninsular toilet which provides access for people who require support on both sides.