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 extra space, equipment, and assistance.
This is where Changing Places facilities come in. But what exactly does the law say about them, and what do venues need to provide?
The Legal Requirements
Building Regulations and Legislation
Under Part M of the Building Regulations (2015 Edition) and BS 8300:2018, specific buildings must include a Changing Places facility if they meet certain criteria.
Additionally, since January 2021, the law requires new public buildings and major refurbishments to install a Changing Places toilet if they exceed a certain size or function, including:
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Premises over 2,500m²
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Large places of assembly (e.g., sports stadiums, cinemas, concert halls) with capacities exceeding 350 people
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Motorway services
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Museums, galleries, and other cultural venues
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Hospitals and healthcare buildings
This legal change was introduced following years of campaigning by Changing Places advocates and charities, ensuring that more venues provide fully accessible facilities.
Equality Act 2010
While not explicitly stating the need for Changing Places, the Equality Act 2010 requires venues to make “reasonable adjustments” to accommodate disabled people.
Given that a lack of suitable toilet facilities effectively excludes thousands of people from public life, installing a Changing Places toilet is increasingly viewed as a reasonable adjustment, particularly for larger venues.
What a Changing Places Facility Must Include
A fully compliant Changing Places toilet must meet the following minimum requirements:
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Room Size: At least 12m² (3m x 4m) or Changing Places with showers require 15m²
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Ceiling Hoist System: A full-room coverage hoist with a safe working load of at least 200kg
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Height-Adjustable Adult Changing Bench: A bench at least 1.8m long
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Peninsular Toilet: Space on both sides for carers, ideally with drop-down and grab rails
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Privacy Screen or Curtain: To ensure dignity for the user
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Non-Slip Flooring and Washbasin: Ideally height-adjustable for accessibility
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Wide Paper Roll and Sanitary Bins: Essential for changing hygiene
Why Should Venues Install a Changing Places Facility?
Beyond legal compliance, installing a Changing Places toilet is an investment in inclusivity, accessibility, and social responsibility. Over 250,000 people in the UK require these facilities to access public spaces, including those with conditions such as cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, and spinal cord injuries. Without them, many are forced to stay home or face unsafe, undignified toileting situations.
Business Benefits
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Increase footfall and customer base: Welcoming more visitors, including disabled people and their families.
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Enhance reputation: Businesses that invest in accessibility receive positive publicity and brand loyalty.
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Meet ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) goals: Many companies are adopting stronger social responsibility commitments.
Ensuring Compliance with Astor Bannerman
At Astor Bannerman, we provide a comprehensive service to ensure that your Changing Places facility meets all regulatory requirements before submission.
Our team can review architectural drawings for compliance, helping architects and developers avoid costly mistakes and ensure adherence to BS 8300:2018 and Building Regulations.
Additionally, we offer turnkey solutions, supplying, installing, and managing the entire process from design to completion. Our modular solutions provide a quick and efficient way to integrate a fully compliant Changing Places facility into your venue, even when internal space is limited.
Get Expert Advice on Changing Places
We specialise in designing and installing fully compliant Changing Places and Hygiene Rooms tailored to your venue’s needs. Whether you need guidance on legal requirements, cost projections, or equipment selection, our expert team is here to help.
Contact us today to learn how we can support your venue in becoming truly inclusive for all.