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 thoughtfully designed hygiene room can transform the daily experience for students who rely on these spaces.
Here, we explore how to design neurodivergent-friendly hygiene rooms, highlight essential equipment, and consider the diverse needs of users with comorbid conditions.
Why Consider Neurodivergent Needs in Hygiene Rooms?
Neurodivergent individuals, such as those with autism, ADHD, or sensory processing disorders, often experience heightened sensitivity to their environment. Factors like lighting, colour, and sound can significantly impact their ability to use hygiene facilities comfortably.
Moreover, individuals with comorbid conditions may require a combination of physical and sensory accommodations.
In school settings, hygiene rooms are not just for wheelchair users. They are a lifeline for students with a range of needs, including sensory sensitivities, anxiety, or difficulties with mobility that do not require a wheelchair. Designing these spaces with inclusivity in mind ensures they meet the needs of all users.
Key Design Considerations
- Use dimmable LED lighting to allow adjustments to brightness.
- Install colour-changing LED ceiling tiles to create a calming, immersive atmosphere. Soft, natural tones like blues and greens can help reduce anxiety.
- Opt for neutral or pastel shades for walls, while using contrasting colours to define separate areas and make navigation easier.Â
- Avoid high-contrast patterns or overly bright colours, which can be overwhelming.
- Use soundproofing materials to minimise external noise.
- Incorporate white noise machines or calming audio options to create a soothing environment.
- Include tactile panels or sensory walls for individuals who seek sensory input.
- Provide options for immersive experiences, such as projected images or videos on the ceiling or walls.
Equipment for Hygiene Rooms
Our bespoke equipment solutions ensure that hygiene rooms are both functional and adaptable to diverse needs:
- Astor CTX2-CP Height Adjustable Changing Table: The height-adjustable feature allows caregivers to customise the table’s position, ensuring safety and comfort for both the user and the caregiver.
- Astor ABW6 Height Adjustable Wash Basin: The flexible height adjustment makes this basin accessible to users of varying needs, while its integrated mirror and optional lighting enhance usability.
- Astor OT200 Ceiling Track Hoist: This discreet hoist system offers smooth and quiet operation, minimising sensory disturbances.Â
- Privacy Screens and Dividers: The KwickScreen Privacy Screen can create smaller, secure zones within the room, catering to users who may feel overwhelmed by open spaces.
- Accessible Toilets and Showers: Our disabled toilets and shower systems include user-friendly controls and fixtures, ensuring accessibility for individuals with sensory or physical needs.
Hygiene Rooms in Schools: A Critical Need
In schools, hygiene rooms must accommodate students who may experience sensory challenges, emotional dysregulation, or physical limitations. By considering neurodivergent needs, schools can:
- Reduce anxiety and stress for students using these facilities.
- Enable greater independence and dignity for all users.
- Support caregivers and staff by providing adaptable and efficient spaces.
Moving Beyond the Wheelchair: Inclusivity for All
The misconception that hygiene rooms are exclusively for wheelchair users can limit their potential impact.
Individuals with hidden disabilities, such as sensory processing disorders or chronic pain, often rely on these facilities just as much.
Recognising the diversity of users ensures that hygiene rooms are inclusive, accessible, and welcoming to everyone.
The Value of Early Consultation
Engaging in early consultation with specialists can prevent costly oversights and ensure that facilities are precisely aligned with BB103 and BB104 standards.
Our CPD sessions provide architects with practical insights on accessible hygiene facilities, from selecting the right equipment to planning effective layouts in schools.
By connecting with experts early in the process, architects can ensure that their designs support inclusive education while maintaining budget and clarity for developers.
Read more about the structural challenges of installing a hoist and how we overcome them here.
Case Studies
Ready to Get Started?
If you’re planning to incorporate a Hygiene Room in a school project, our team at Astor Bannerman is here to guide you through each step to ensure it meets all relevant standards and optimally serves students’ needs.
Contact us to arrange a no-obligation consultation with our Hygiene Room specialists, and let’s work together to create accessible, cost-effective spaces that support inclusive education and align with BB103 and BB104 guidelines.
