Technical guidance for architects working on mainstream and SEND school projects Designing accessible bathrooms in educational settings is about more than just meeting building regulations — it’s about creating inclusive, dignified spaces that genuinely work for the...
As society becomes more aware of the importance of accessibility, it’s crucial to ensure that Disabled young people are not only supported throughout their education but are also empowered to live independently as adults. While schools and further education settings...
Montacute House, a magnificent Elizabethan mansion in South Somerset, is one of the National Trust’s most architecturally significant sites. Set in beautifully landscaped gardens and surrounded by rolling countryside, it’s a popular destination for history lovers,...
Victoria Embankment Gardens, located along the north bank of the River Thames, is one of Central London’s most iconic green spaces. Tucked between Westminster and Temple, this well-loved area offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of the capital — surrounded by famous...
Ensuring accessibility in schools is a critical part of inclusive education. One of the biggest challenges in both mainstream and SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) schools is installing effective hoisting systems within Hygiene Rooms or for...
As part of our mission to highlight accessible spaces, our team recently visited the Royal West of England Academy (RWA) in Bristol with Leo and his carer, Jess. Known as the UK’s only regional Royal Academy of Art, RWA is a prestigious cultural venue that showcases...
For people requiring assisted bathing, ensuring a safe, efficient, and comfortable setup is essential. In this project, the client’s existing Astor Bannerman bath, whic was more than 15 years old, needed to be replaced. Previously, the client had to be hoisted...
Undertaking a bathroom adaptation project requires careful planning and collaboration. As an OT, ensuring the best outcome for your client means working with an equipment partner who provides expert guidance, high-quality equipment, and ongoing support. A strong...
We’re excited to announce that our London showroom, located within the Kwickscreen Blue Garage (30 Engate St, London SE13 7HA), is now open for appointment-only demonstrations! This dedicated space features a fully functional school hygiene room and Changing Places...
Lewisham Shopping Centre, located in the heart of South East London, has taken a major step forward in creating a more accessible and inclusive environment for all its visitors. As part of a recent refurbishment, the centre installed a fully compliant Changing Places...
Euston Station, one of the UK’s busiest rail hubs, has made significant strides in accessibility with the installation of a Changing Places facility. Located within the main station concourse, this vital facility ensures that passengers with complex disabilities can...
Attwell Farm Park, located in Worcestershire, is a family-friendly attraction offering a range of activities, from animal encounters to adventure play areas. Recognising the importance of accessibility, the park has taken a significant step forward by installing a...
Continuing our journey through the UK’s most iconic royal sites, The Royal Series: Part II takes us to Kensington Palace Gardens: The Orangery. A location steeped in history, these grounds have long been a place of grandeur, refinement, and leisure for British...
As a community occupational therapist (OT), one of the key challenges you may face is finding practical solutions for clients with complex needs who live in small or inaccessible homes. Limited space can make it difficult to accommodate essential bathroom adaptations,...
Recently, our team went to visit Bath Abbey, an iconic piece of history and a true gem of the city. Located in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage City of Bath, the Abbey is an awe-inspiring example of Perpendicular Gothic architecture. With its soaring stone...
For many children with complex needs, bathing isn’t just about hygiene – it’s about comfort, relaxation, and dignity. This was especially true for our young client, a wheelchair user with cerebral palsy (CP) who experiences significant uncontrolled movements. At...
Windsor Castle, located in the heart of Berkshire, England, is one of the most iconic royal residences in the United Kingdom. As the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world, Windsor Castle has been home to the British royal family for over 1,000 years. The...
In the UK, the provision of accessible toilets is a legal and moral responsibility for venues open to the public. While standard accessible toilets meet the needs of some disabled people, they are not suitable for individuals with complex disabilities who require...
This week, we are delighted to be attending the Occupational Therapy Adaptation Conference (OTAC) in Glasgow to meet with occupational therapists and professionals involved in home adaptations across Scotland. At Astor Bannerman, we’re passionate about working...
We understand that not all disabilities are visible. While Changing Places facilities and hygiene rooms are often associated with physical disabilities, they play an equally vital role in supporting individuals with neurodivergent needs. For schools, creating a...
Sustainability is often described as a journey rather than a destination, and for us at Astor Bannerman, it’s one that we’re still definitely on. But if there’s one thing we’ve learnt so far, it’s this: collaboration and partnerships are invaluable. Reaching out to...
Providing effective care for students with complex physical disabilities in schools requires both time and effort. Traditional mobile hoist systems, while functional, can lead to time-consuming and physically demanding processes for carers. With the installation of...
The National Trust is celebrating 130 years of preserving and sharing some of the UK’s most important places. At Astor Bannerman, we’re proud to support their mission by improving accessibility at sites like Dudmaston Hall with our Changing Places facilities....
