We were thrilled to be invited to the official opening of a newly installed Changing Places Toilet at Wightlink‘s ferry terminal in Portsmouth last week.
Yachtsman Geoff Holt, who uses a wheelchair, carried out the official opening.
The ferry company has provided the facility at its port in Gunwharf Road with support from the Department for Transport Maritime Accessibility Fund. The Changing Places toilet gives disabled children and adults the confidence to embark on ferry travel to the Isle of Wight, knowing their needs can be met before the sailing.
Geoff Holt and Keith Greenfield opening the Changing Places Toilet
Dan Brice (Astor Bannerman) demonstrating how to use the equipment
Astor Bannerman was commissioned to install the Changing Places toilet at its Portsmouth port, and is now at work on Wightlink’s second Changing Places toilet on Ryde Pier.
Mark Colebrook, Astor Bannerman’s Managing Director said;
“As the leading UK manufacturer of Changing Places equipment, we are proud to have installed this new Changing Places toilet, and to be working on its sister on the Isle of Wight. They both include the latest innovative equipment, designed specifically for Changing Places toilets.”
The equipment in the Changing Places toilet includes:
– Astor Invincible Changing Table
– ABW-CP Height Adjustable Wash Basin
– Peninsular Toilet
– KwickScreen personalised privacy screen
– Accessories including support rails
Department for Transport Maritime Minister Baroness Vere says:
“Wightlink is leading by example to ensure those with disabilities are able to travel in confidence and comfort.
“Our Maritime Accessibility Fund was designed so ports, harbours, hoverports and ferry or hovercraft operators can make their services more accessible, and I’m delighted our funding is being used to do just that.”
Yachtsman Geoff Holt MBE knows Portsmouth Harbour well. He founded WetWheels Solent at Gunwharf Quays, close to Wightlink’s terminal. It supports disabled and disadvantaged people of all ages to enjoy boating. This opportunity to get on the water broadens aspirations, increases confidence and directly impacts on health and wellbeing.
“I welcome the installation of Wightlink’s impressive accessible toilet as I know more disabled people and their families will want to travel when you remove barriers,” says Geoff. “Portsmouth should be proud that several Changing Places toilets are now being installed in the city. It’s setting an example for other places to follow.”
Wightlink Chief Executive Keith Greenfield says:
“We were delighted to welcome Geoff Holt to our terminal to perform the opening ceremony. He is a powerful advocate for more opportunities for disabled people and his charity has already supported thousands of people to enjoy the excitement of powerboating.
“Wightlink is grateful to the Department for Transport for helping to finance these Changing Places toilets. This is part of Wightlink’s wider programme to improve how we support our disabled customers. Accessible ticket machines are on order, we are making car parking easier and audits are being carried out on all the company’s systems and facilities.”
ABOUT ASTOR BANNERMAN
Astor Bannerman offer the full range of products specified by Changing Places regulations, including fixed and mobile changing tables, hoists, height adjustable washbasins, toilets and accessories. We are always developing new products, and are proud to have developed the Astor Invincible, the first changing table designed specifically for Changing Places toilets.
ABOUT AVESO
The team at Aveso are passionate about Changing Places toilets. They have supported the official Changing Places campaign since 2013, and can provide free, expert advice on all aspects of the Changing Places planning and design process.