"disabled"

Washroom designed, manufactured and installed new washrooms and fitted out the reception area for the new Trampoline and Play Park at Sutton Sports Village. The team specified a vivid shade of orange throughout the centre including on the Forte SGL cubicles, Concerto SGL duct panels, SGL vanities and HPL reception desk. With accessibility a key consideration, Washroom installed two different sized washroom cubicles; one with half-height doors for younger children, disabled toilets with outwards opening doors and ensured the pilasters provided a colour contrast to the cubicle doors to assist any partially sighted visitors to the centre.

The £11 million Auditorium at the Fire Station is a new live music and events venue in the heart of Sunderland city centre, developed by the Music, Arts and Culture (MAC) Trust, that required an Emergency Voice Communication System (EVCS). Officially opened by His Royal Highness Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales in 2018, the project forms a key component in the masterplan for the city’s Music and Cultural Quarter, built around the refurbished Dun Cow pub and the recently renovated adjacent Engine Room at the Fire Station.Products used - Lexicomm Network disabled refuge system, including integrated emergency assistance alarm.

To provide safe and reliable closing of the numerous internal doors, Halsall Lloyd had no hesitation in specifying products from dormakaba. “Our experience of dormakaba products is of high quality design and manufacture and virtually silent and reliable operation. They perform their job admirably and are commensurate with the high quality aspirations that Hope University hold for their campus.” commented. Architectural hardware distributor PSL supplied TS 92 silver Contur cam action door closers for the conference and classroom timber doors and a further TS 93 silver Contur cam action door closers for corridor doors where disabled access was a priority.

The Frederick Holmes School in Hull was a new-build project we worked on a few years back. The school was designed to cater for students aged 2 to 19 with severe physical and learning disabilities. Classrooms and hygiene rooms needed full hoist coverage to allow students and staff to move anywhere within the room. We even let the school trial our hoist units whilst they were deciding which supplier to go with. Ultimately, the easiness of our hoist systems made them choose us to supply and install 32 X-Y hoist systems. Find out more on our website.

Located near Taunton, Somerset, the Halcon Centre provides short breaks, with 24-hour professional care, for up to 18 adults who are physically disabled or have sensory loss. SureProtect Design® bespoke wall cladding was installed in the main corridor at the centre featuring a row of imitation panels, that have been designed to look hand-drawn with a marker pen to offer the homely feel the centre was looking for. In addition, the Halcon Centre further increased the corridor walls’ protection by installing Gradus’s CGH5090 High Impact PVC-u Corner Guards and WGS200 Wall Guards, both in colour Gravel.

The hospital needed to ensure good accessibility and create demarcation areas for staff and visitors. We provided various systems including automatic revolving doors and sliding doors, an automatic revolving door with a diameter of 5.4 meters, and various swing door operators for the automation of both wooden single-action doors and fire-resistant doors. We installed swing door operators and sliding door operators which ensure convenient, comfortable and safe access between the departments. In addition to the benefits of comfort and energy-savings, the solution provides safe escape routes and easy access for both able-bodied and disabled people.

Brooklands Museum recently completed a project refurbishing a WW2 hangar with a mezzanine viewing platform. The stairs were unsuitable for disabled access, so required a lift with minimal support points, no head fixing and small footprint. Gartec's 7000 passenger platform lift was installed in 2 days - Valerie Mills, Commercial Director, commented “Once features and prices were compared, the 7000 was an easy choice. Gartec provided everything to make an informed decision. We're surprised how quickly the team completed the installation – efficient, clean and professional. The lift ticks all the boxes and opened the upper space for everyone to enjoy”

Irvine Leisure Centre showcases Prospec’s Cabrillant 700 cubicle system in standard float, toughened and laminated glass. Both Prospec Marathon glass and laminate wet lockers are featured within the centre, each £1 coin return lock accepting both the new and old £1 coins. Furthermore, other products installed by Prospec would include the Marathon Conform Suspended system inside the Village Change area and Disabled Access lockers which act in accordance with Sport Scotland and BREAAM guidelines. Prospec products at The Portal are finished with a contemporary colour pallet, which gives a clean and modern feel.

“The variation of colours available in the Award range meant each washroom became a unique space, which really brightened up both areas.” Given the extensive range of activities undertaken at Francis Holland School, their new washroom refurbishment needed to be suitable for both wet and dry environments. They also requested a separate disabled access washroom and bright colour schemes to create a welcoming and stimulating environment. Award’s cubicle range was the perfect choice for the project. Both washroom refurbishments created bright, unique and welcoming areas and have been well received by pupils and staff alike.Read the full case study for more details.

25 Churchill Place is a 23 storey commercial office tower in Canary Wharf, London. The tower includes 20 floors of high quality (Grade A) office space and is one of the most energy efficient office buildings in the area. Environmental features include lifts that store energy that is re-used elsewhere in the building, and also a highly efficient air conditioning system.Standing at 130m tall, 25 Churchill Place has a VIGIL2 EVAS voice alarm system and an Omnicare EVC system installed.Initially the voice alarm system was installed to service the ‘shell and core’ of the building, with the system racks being designed and built to enable the fitting of ‘tenant’ functionality as and when required. This process is easily achieved due to the modular design of a VIGIL voice alarm system and is a frequently used benefit for ‘new builds’.For the disabled refuge and fire telephone system (EVC), the loop wired Omnicare system was chosen. Canary Wharf Contractors (landlord of BP4) opted for the dual coloured combined fire telephone (red)/disabled refuge (green) outstation which provides users with a choice of communication method.Both systems were designed and installed by Global Fire & Security Systems - one of our Gold Account achievers. Commenting on the installation, Stuart Beeley, Operations Director, Global Fire & Security Systems, said “We have worked closely with Canary Wharf Contractors and Baldwin Boxall on many great projects, and BP4 is another one to add to that list. We choose Baldwin Boxall systems, not only because we know them to be well built and reliable, but because of the support we receive from the company - at all levels.”

St Paul's Cathedral is Sir Christopher Wren's masterpiece, built in glowing Portland Stone, crowned by the magnificent dome, a famous landmark on the skyline of the City of London.This programme saw St Paul’s repaired and cleaned inside and out, with greatly improved provision for those with disabilities and an enhanced visitor experience through the provision of new exhibition and interpretation galleries.Here at Albion Stone we regularly supply Portland stone to the Masons at St Paul’s Cathedral for maintenance and repairs. We supplied Portland Jordans Basebed and Whitbed for the South Churchyard Improvements. The stone has been used to create seating areas that reinforce the other side of the medieval cloister walk.

Our installation team started this project by fitting our brand of the Front Line changing room cubicles. They fitted the cubicles with inward opening doors. Next benches were fitted inside the cubicles at either side which provides a seat whilst changing. Thereafter, the Frontline toilet cubicles, shower cubicles, family changing areas, baby and disability changing areas were completed. The changing room cubicles were supplied with anti-peep rails. Anti-peeps rails are physical barriers fitted at the top of the cubicles.Our leisure lockers in a range of two doors and three doors were placed and bolted together. These are lockers and are ideal for use in swimming pool areas. 

Scarborough Sports Village includes Prospec Marathon Classic range throughout, with cantilevered and double island bench seating in matching solid grade laminate. Prospec Marathon wet lockers, which include an aluminium carcass for wet areas, are a mixture of 1, 2, 3, and 4 tiers, and feature our new £1 coin return lock. Other products included within our installation would be our Marathon Classic fully framed cubicles, postformed solid grade laminate vanity units and grooming shelves, and floor to ceiling IPS (duct panel systems). This project also features our Disabled Access lockers which comply with Sport England recommendations.

In the world of education, the physical environment plays a crucial role in shaping the learning experiences of students. To ensure that every child has equal access to education, the Department for Education (DfE) in the United Kingdom has laid down comprehensive guidelines for the design and construction of school buildings. Two key documents, BB103 and BB104, stand at the forefront of this initiative, setting standards to promote inclusivity and accessibility within educational settings.BB103 | Designing Accessible School BuildingsFor mainstream schools, BB103 mandates the inclusion of accessible facilities to accommodate pupils, students, staff, and visitors with disabilities. Crucially, this includes the provision of a specialist hygiene room equipped with either a fixed or mobile hoist, alongside ample space for assistants to facilitate the changing process.In primary schools, the hygiene room must span a minimum of 9m² and feature essentials such as a changing bed and accessible WC.Secondary schools, on the other hand, are required to allocate a minimum of 12m² for their hygiene rooms, which should additionally incorporate an accessible shower, sluice toilet, and changing trolley. These specifications are designed to ensure that hygiene rooms meet the unique needs of students across different age groups and educational settings.According to recent statistics from the DfE, approximately 14.1% of children in the UK have special educational needs, highlighting the critical importance of ensuring that school environments are inclusive and supportive.BB104 | Catering to Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)BB104 further refines the standards for hygiene rooms in special schools and alternative provisions (APs). For non-ambulant special schools or units, the guideline stipulates the provision of one hygiene room for every 12 non-ambulant pupil places. These rooms must be equipped with a fixed hoist, a changing bed, a wash hand basin, an accessible WC, and an accessible shower, underscoring the comprehensive support required for students with profound disabilities.In ambulant special schools and APs, one hygiene room per setting is mandated, featuring either a fixed or mobile hoist, a changing bed, a wash hand basin, and an accessible WC.Additionally, all hygiene rooms are required to have facilities for waste disposal, such as a sluice or equivalent, to maintain hygiene standards and ensure the efficient management of waste.Conclusion | Building for a Brighter FutureAs educators and stakeholders in the education sector, it is our collective responsibility to champion inclusivity and accessibility in every aspect of school design and construction. By understanding and implementing the guidelines outlined in BB103 and BB104, we pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future where every child has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.How can we help? Our skilled team have many years’ experience of planning and installing equipment within public environments such as schools and universities. Please do get in touch if you need help or advice with your project or further support on the Government requirements for equipment that needs to be installed to support SEND students.

Gripsure decking is helping to bring more visitors to an expanding network of scenic waterside trails in rural Ireland. Gripsure's Premier non-slip timber decking is used on a new 60-metre-long boardwalk at Acres Lake near Drumshanbo, County Leitrim. The boardwalk forms part of the Shannon Blueway, a network of multi-activity recreational trails providing routes into the heart of rural Ireland by canoe, bike or on foot. The boardwalk was officially opened by The Minister for the Department of Rural and Community Development, Minister Ring TD. Gripsure’s anti-slip decking is also used on Acre Lake’s new fishing and viewing platform, which is accessible to disabled visitors. Using one of the safest decking profiles available, it will ensure the waterside attraction stays safe underfoot– even in wet weather. Created by Waterways Ireland, the development is aimed at attracting more people to enjoy the waterways. In addition to traditional boaters, the family-friendly trails are now bringing walkers, canoeists, paddle boarders and cyclists to enjoy the trails. Deirdre Donnelly, Design Engineer at Waterways Ireland said: “The boardwalk is a fantastic facility that has been very well received. It is bringing in more visitors to use the Shannon Blueway, including walkers, cyclists, paddle boarders and anglers. When we were designing the boardwalk we decided we needed a non-slip surface that was also very durable. We are committed to making the boardwalk and fishing platform accessible to visitors with disabilities and safety has been an important consideration. The decking was very easy to install, looks great and works really well.” The Shannon Blueway encompasses more than 200km of waterborne or waterside trails. Its recreational trails offer walking, kayaking, and cycling routes in lesser-known parts of the State.

Located just to the east of Worksop Town Centre, The Canch is an award-winning park that is owned and managed by Bassetlaw District Council.As part of Bassetlaw District Council’s commitment to continually improve the overall facilities at its Green Flag award-winning park, plans for a new building were put in place in 2021 to include a refreshments kiosk, a Changing Places toilet, a disabled toilet, a baby change and parent WC in addition to four unisex toilets.To improve their visitor experience and make their park accessible for all, Bassetlaw District Council got in touch with Innova Care Concepts to supply and install a new Changing Places facility.Take a look to fine out how Innova helped ensure The Canch had accessible toilet facilities for all visitors to their park .....

The BriefPG Marshall and Sons Ltd. were working on a project at St Helier Hospital for Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust. They were relocating the Davis (outpatient) unit which included a portable building that required weather protection over the disability access ramp and pathway leading to the unit.They also needed the canopy to connect the Davis Unit to Ferguson House (the main building), which already had a small cantilevered canopy that the hospital trust were keen to keep in place.The SolutionThe two buildings that required connecting via a canopy had a fairly awkward space in between due to the buildings not being equally parallel to one another. Following the original design drawings, it was clear that the perfect solution would be the popular Coniston Wall Mounted Canopy.

When charity, Small Steps, secured its new home at the heart of Richmond, it required a warm and welcoming interior environment that would support children living with physical disabilities and their families. Providing the perfect natural canvas, Forbo Flooring Systems' linoleum brand, Marmoleum, was installed throughout the purpose built facility. Spread over three floors of a former office building on Worple Way, the 517 m² site that Small Steps now calls home, was funded through a generous donation. The entire design team – which included JTP Architects, Robert Bird & Partners, MTT Consultants, ISG Ltd, PIP Building Services and P2 Design – worked together, many on a pro bono or reduced fee basis to complete the refurbishment for the charity.

Projects Information: Type: Public Swimming Pool Room: Shower area for women/men, shower Location: Berlin Kaulsdorf Construction company: Heidrich Fliesen, Zernitz-Lohm Project Description: 50m pool Non-swimmer pool with slide 2 sauna cubicles 95°C, steam bath, samarium 4 water wheelchairs, no lift, but flat, rounded Disabled parking spaces Products/Systems used: wedi Building Boards in different thicknesses wedi 610 Adhesive and Sealing Material wedi Tools Reinforcement Tape Special production (8 units each) with Fundo Requirements: Very short assembly times on site Support from AD + AWT in setup/instruction Very short drying times Water-tight material Quick processing

Design-led interiors for supported living homesIssueA dilapidated former care home was being redeveloped into high specification, modern flats, and communal spaces. The new flats were to provide bespoke, accessible accommodation for people with autism, learning disabilities and physical disabilities, with an on-site café open to the community. The aim was to create bright, modern, living, and communal spaces, without an institutional feeling.ApproachThe flats offer different levels of support for residents. Support provided within people’s own homes is tailored to each person’s needs and supports individuals who are stepping down from secure units and hospitals including those who may have experienced previous placement breakdowns.Interior Designer Penny Green, having worked with Altro products for many years, liaised with Altro to select a range of floor options to deliver flexible solutions in the different application areas, suitable for resident’s needs.SolutionAltro Ensemble modular flooring system was specified for The Foundry Café, bringing the benefit of 15dB sound reduction, and added comfort underfoot.In areas with a higher risk of slip, Altro Wood was selected to match the colour scheme, providing a biophilic safe option together with homely aesthetics.Altro Pisces specialist safety flooring, designed for shoe and bare foot use, was specified for all bathrooms and wet rooms. For the Foundry kitchen Altro Stronghold 30 was selected to bring safety and comfort underfoot for staff, and Altro Reliance 25 was specified for the back of house and delivery areas bringing a hard-wearing and durable finish."WOW is the best way of describing the interior…fresh, appealing, homely, very good taste - well thought out and not what supported living places are usually like."Tina Hanson-Jones Project Manager, Precious Homes"We work collaboratively to create a home for people – a calm haven, a safe space. We use a palette that allows people to add their own personality."Penny Green Interior Designer

Gripsure decking has been used to provide safe outdoor areas at a learning centre and holiday lodges owned by a Cornish sailing charity. The Children’s Sailing Trust has taught more than 5,000 youngsters to sail since it was established in on the Helford River in 1997. The charity offers accessible sailing to children who might not otherwise get the opportunity to get out on the water, including those with special educational needs and disabilities.Gripsure’s non-slip decking has been used to create safe outdoor spaces at the trust’s recently opened public waterside Learning Centre at Trevassack Lake on The Lizard, as well as outside six holiday properties at the same site. The three accessible lodges and three cabins, all with inset hot tubs, are available for people to rent and help to raise important funds for the charity.Charity staff say the decking areas had to be non-slip and accessible, as well as in keeping with the style of the site. Up to 3,850 linear meters of Gripsure’s Contemporary profile boards have been used around two sides of public waterside at the Learning Centre, including the outside eating area.The Contemporary boards also form the large decking area outside each of the holiday properties. The lakeside has three architect designed lodges, two of which are fully accessible with integrated ceiling hoists, adjustable kitchen facilities, wide doorways and other aids.There are also three double-depth cabins, more suitable for non-disabled guests or those with some mobility limitations.Katie Chown, marketing manager at Children’s Sailing Trust said: “The non-slip surface is very important because we have children running around and people with mobility difficulties who need to have safe, level walkways. We chose the Contemporary profile because we are a brand new site with purpose-built, modern facilities to welcome all ages and abilities, so all the finishings and furnishings are classic, modern and good quality.”Gripsure’s low maintenance Contemporary profile boards are made from high-quality Northern European Redwood Pine. They have an expected service life of 15-20 years and a 15-year non-slip performance warranty.Katie said: “It does the intended job and looks smart,” adding that it is “very practical in day-to-day use.”The decking areas at Trevassack Lake were fitted through contractor Brady Construction. Alastair Knight from Brady said although tough to cut, the boards blended in with the look of the centre and holiday properties. “It all looked really good in the end,” he said. “Apart from blunting a few cutting tools, everything else was brilliant. The decking fitted in very well.”The Children’s Sailing Trust was established for local school children. The opening of Trevassack means it can offer a wide range of accessible and inclusive facilities.Trevassack is open to the public, for all ages and abilities or disabilities.To find out more, see childrenssailingtrust.org.ukAll media is courtesy of The Children's Sailing Trust. ©2022 The Children's Sailing Trust

PROJECT BACKGROUND: Ongoing improvements were in progress at the school, focused on enhancing accessibility. These improvements included widening existing interior openings and introducing new exterior doors equipped with ramps.REQUIREMENT:  The ramps needed to comply with DDA (Disability Discrimination Act) standards and feature childproof, slip-resistant surface coverings.END RESULT: Once the new doors were in place, we installed the DDA ramps accordingly with a 1:15 gradient.Each system was fitted with our Safetread Rubber Surface. This is a cushiony, slip-resistant ramp covering designed to minimise the impact of falls.This product is constructed from materials identical to those used in soft play areas and enjoys wide popularity among nurseries, schools, and public facilities. Moreover, it offers a variety of colour options and maintains its performance even in adverse weather conditions.

Resurfacing was required for this busy supermarket and public car park serving Billericay town centre. In addition to replacing the old surface, works included reconfiguring the layout with additional parent & child and disabled parking bays and the creation of pedestrian walkways with clear demarcation. Tarmac’s ULTIDRIVE 6mm asphalt was selected as it has a close texture finish to provide a surface that is both durable and able to resist the effects of tight turning vehicles. ULTIDRIVE is a specialist asphalt with an advanced modified binder that provides enhanced workability during installation. This assists with compaction and finish, especially when hand laying around ironwork. It also provides improved resistance to rutting and deformation from vehicle loading and to scuffing and abrasion from power-assisted steering. ULTIDRIVE has a higher softening point temperature than conventional materials and resists occasional fuel and oil spills.

We recently worked with Greswolde Construction and C2J Architects to manufacture and install healthcare furniture for Broadway Medical Centre, a new, two-storey medical centre, which replaces the existing surgery in the centre of Broadway, Worcestershire. The contract value was just over £55,000 and involved providing furniture throughout the new centre, in both clinical and administrative rooms.The new primary care medical centre will have five GP consulting rooms, two GP registrar rooms, two treatment and minor surgery rooms, as well as various rooms for other medical needs. A number of offices and meeting rooms will occupy the first floor. A new 65-space car park has also been included for the site which will have disabled spaces, electric car charging bays and cycle storage as well as an ambulance bay.

Riverside Ice and Leisure, ChelmsfordClient: Chelmsford City CouncilArchitect: Pick EverardInstaller: Geschwender GmbhProduct: Bespoke Locker and Cubicle solutions from GeschwenderAs part of a major renovations project for the leisure centre in 2019, LSA and Geschwender supplied and installed lockers and cubicles to the changing rooms and studio areas.The complete facility refurbishment includes a new 25m swimming pool and learning pool with a spectator area and flume, as well as modern studio spaces and 130 station state-of-the-art gym. Other new additions to the leisure centre include a new café and creche as well as improvements to general access and the main sports hall and ice rink.The improvements achieved by Chelmsford City Council and Pick Everard architects aimed to make the space more accessible for disabled guests. The new swimming pool facility has a submersible entry platform and pool pod for wheelchair users as well as an access hoist for the learner pool. With the introduction of new changing places units and additional accessible wet and dry changing rooms the site is geared towards making the experience of their disabled guests as easy as possible with the support of Chelmsford Access Group.LSA are proud to have worked with Riverside Ice and Leisure since 2006 when we first supplied some lockers and cubicles to changing rooms. Over the next 12 years we kept in touch with the leisure centre, adding more Geschwender cubicles and lockers to the site as well as completing minor repairs and supplying a few replacement keys and locks.In 2018 we were thrilled when Riverside and the architects at Pick Everard contacted us to be part of the new major refit project. In addition to restyling the space with a more modern colour scheme and accessories we were able to design the changing room from the ground up. Optimising space for our premium lockers and changing cubicles to best suit the needs of all of the users.In addition to the great still shots of our products at Riverside we are delighted to share on our website the virtual tour walkthrough showing our lockers and changing rooms across the facility.

Closomat has a proven track record in supply and installation of Changing Places facilities in healthcare settings. Changing Places are vital for disabled people with complex needs, providing safe and dignified access to an appropriate toilet when away from home.Closomat’s high-specification Changing Places facilities are robust and effective for high-traffic locations such as hospitals, medical centres and GP Surgeries. The company’s ability to deliver design advice, supply, installation, commissioning and maintenance across the ambit of accessible toileting equipment, means it is uniquely placed to simplify the whole process for public environments.Changing Places by Closomat can be found at the following:Darlington Memorial HospitalFinchley Memorial HospitalLeighton Hospital The facilities at Darlington Memorial Hospital and Leighton Hospital include the addition of British Standards recommended Closomat wash and dry toilet. The automatic toilet cleans and dries the user after flushing, enabling the facilities to support a wider range of patients and visitors and offering high levels of hygiene.

In our built environment, the significance of colour often goes overlooked. Yet, colour has a profound impact on our emotions, behaviours, and overall well-being. This rings especially true in spaces like Changing Places toilets, where accessibility and inclusivity are paramount. In this blog, we’ll explore how the thoughtful application of colour can positively influence individuals with disabilities in Changing Places toilets, creating environments that promote comfort, safety, and dignity. It's crucial to acknowledge the diverse range of disabilities that users of Changing Places toilets may have. From physical impairments to sensory sensitivities, each individual’s needs must be considered when designing these spaces. Colour can play a pivotal role in addressing these needs by providing visual cues, enhancing wayfinding, and fostering a welcoming atmosphere. Here are a few things to consider when designing your Changing Places Toilet:One. Colour ContrastFor individuals with visual impairments, high colour contrast can aid navigation and identification of key elements within the restroom, such as grab bars, door handles, and signage.Bold colours like blue or red against neutral backgrounds can draw attention to important features, making them easier to perceive for those with limited vision.Two. Mood EnhancementMoreover, colour can influence mood and emotional well-being. Bright, cheerful hues like blues and greens can evoke feelings of calmness and tranquillity, contributing to a more relaxed and positive restroom experience. Conversely, harsh or jarring colour schemes may provoke anxiety or discomfort, particularly for individuals with sensory processing disorders or autism spectrum disorders.Three. Psychological BenefitsAnother aspect to consider is the psychological impact of colour on hygiene and cleanliness perceptions. Light, neutral tones such as white or pastels can create an impression of cleanliness and sterility, instilling confidence in the restroom’s hygiene standards. Incorporating antibacterial coatings or materials can further enhance this perception, promoting a sense of safety and well-being among users.Four. Differentiating ZonesFurthermore, colour can be used to differentiate functional zones within the restroom, facilitating intuitive navigation and usage. For example, using a distinct colour palette for the toilet area versus the sink and changing station areas can help users orient themselves more easily, especially for those with cognitive or memory impairments.Five. Branding Your Changing PacesIn addition to its practical benefits, colour can also be a powerful tool for expression and identity. By incorporating elements of personalisation and cultural relevance into the design. Artwork, murals, or decorative accents inspired by local traditions or themes can create a sense of belonging and pride among users, fostering a more meaningful connection to the space.Six. HewiOur accessories partner, HEWI, is particularly focused on colour. HEWI’s commitment to colour-focused accessibility solutions has significantly contributed to the inclusive design of Changing Places toilets. Their innovative products and expertise in colour psychology have played a crucial role in creating environments that prioritise both accessibility and aesthetics.To ConcludeUltimately, the thoughtful application of colour in Changing Places toilets can enhance accessibility, comfort, and dignity for individuals with disabilities. By considering the unique needs and preferences of diverse user groups, designers and architects can create inclusive environments that promote independence, confidence, and well-being for all.In conclusion, colour is not merely a decorative element but a powerful tool for enhancing the accessibility and inclusivity of Changing Places toilets. From aiding navigation and wayfinding to promoting emotional well-being and hygiene perceptions, the strategic use of colour can transform these spaces into welcoming and empowering environments for individuals of all abilities. 

US aircraft manufacturer, Boeing, officially opened its first European manufacturing site in Sheffield in 2020. The £40m plant, covers 6,200m² and is responsible for making actuation system components for the 737 and 767 aircraft from raw materials sourced in the UK.The site, designed by D5 architects and installed by the main contractor J F Finnegan, followed the brief of functional adaptability, employee wellbeing and sustainability.Marshalls’ hard landscaping products were used for the forecourt, pathways and surrounding carpark to the building. Modal in Textured Mid Grey Granite paved around the entranceway and paths, while Modal Priora in Anthracite was used in some detailed areas. For the car parking spaces, Keyblok Priora in Natural was used alongside Charcoal to help define parking spaces and illustrate car charging and disabled bays.The use of Priora permeable paving supports the sustainable drainage for this project, the patented nib on the edge of the blocks creates voids through which water falls into a specially prepared sub-base, making this project free of surface water for years to come.

In recent guidance from the Department for Education (DfE), specifically BB103 and BB104, it has been strongly recommended that both mainstream and Special Educational Needs (SEND) schools incorporate hygiene rooms as an essential component of their facilities to comply with regulations. This highlights the commitment to creating inclusive learning spaces that cater to the diverse needs of students.This guide shares five crucial insights for anyone embarking on the journey of creating hygiene rooms within educational institutions.One. Adhere To DfE Guidelines:Underscored is the importance of aligning with the Department for Education (DfE) guidelines, specifically BB104 and BB103. These guidelines set forth the standards necessary for designing hygiene rooms that cater comprehensively to the diverse needs of students with disabilities. We’ve briefly outlined the guidance below:BB103: “Area Guidelines for Mainstream Schools”:BB103 provides guidance on the space requirements and design considerations for various areas within mainstream schools. This includes classrooms, dining areas, toilet facilities, and more. The goal is to ensure that the physical environment supports effective teaching and learning, as well as the overall well-being of students.BB104: “Access to and Use of Buildings”:BB104 focuses on access to and use of buildings, specifically addressing issues related to accessibility for individuals with disabilities in SEND schools. This guideline outlines the standards for creating an inclusive and accessible built environment within educational facilities. It covers features to ensure that buildings are welcoming and usable by everyone.Most importantly BB103 & BB104 state that a hygiene room should be included in all school settings.Two. Ensure You Have Considered Full Room Hoist CoverageIt’s important to consider the mobility of students when planning for a hygiene room installation. We recommend the Astor OT200 Overhead Ceiling Track Hoist, this advanced hoist system offers full room coverage, ensuring secure and seamless transfers for students with mobility challenges. Improving the utilisation of space and the versatile enhancement of accessibility within hygiene rooms. Discover more about the Astor OT200 Overhead Ceiling Track Hoist here, including its X-Y track system to give access to all amenities and facilities, room-to-room transfer capabilities, considerations for door height/track system impact, and room height/depth of track.Three. Choose The Correct Changing TableIn schools, changing tables are essential for students with disabilities, offering a supportive and dignified space for changing routines. Tailored to various needs, these tables contribute to creating an inclusive environment, ensuring all students feel welcome and supported. When selecting a changing table for a school hygiene room, you’ll need to consider crucial factors. The key considerations when making your decision include:Wall Mounted / Mobile: Considerations include the available space, access and the number of carers needed.Height Adjustability: Protect your carers by insuring easy adjustment to the correct working height,Maximum Working Load: Ensure durability for daily use with a robust design.Size: Optimise functionality by considering the changing table’s size in relation to available space.Shower Tray Required?: Enhance hygiene with the option for a practical shower tray.Space / Need to Stow?: Maximise efficiency with a fold-away design for space-saving and easy stowing.Tilting Headrests: Improve user comfort with tilting headrests for a friendly changing experience.Explore the Astor CTX2-CP, with a water collection tray and drain hose which is ideal for showering and changing. The CP model comes with an emergency stop button which is perfect for multi-user environments such as Changing Places Toilets, schools and care environments.Four. Include A Height Adjustable Wash BasinInstalling a Height-adjustable wash basin will offer accessibility for students with a range of disabilities. Specially designed to cater to diverse needs, these basins ensure comfort and prolonged independence, fostering an inclusive and supportive educational environment. This inclusive design not only enhances the overall functionality of these spaces but also emphasises a commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that every child can navigate and utilise hygiene facilities with ease and dignity.We recommend the Astor ABW-CP Height Adjustable Wall Mounted Wash Basin featuring a spacious basin surround, it aids wheelchair users in transitioning from sitting to standing. Controlled effortlessly by a handheld device, the ABW-CP includes a large integrated mirror and an adjustable soap dispenser for added convenience.Five. Consider The Colour Scheme For Sensory Well-BeingWhen designing hygiene rooms in schools, you will need to consider a strategic colour contrast for enhanced sensory well-being. Instead of solely opting for calming colours, integrate high-contrast elements like light-coloured walls with dark or bright furnishings. This not only aids sensory wayfinding, particularly for children with autism, but also creates visually distinct zones within the space. Consider incorporating varied textures alongside the chosen colour palette to further enrich the sensory experience. By taking a thoughtful approach to colour contrast, hygiene rooms can become incredibly positive and inclusive spaces that support the well-being of all students.To ConcludeIn summary, this guide advocates for a comprehensive approach to inclusivity when installing hygiene rooms in schools. Prioritising adherence to guidelines, making innovative equipment choices, and adopting thoughtful design are central to creating educational spaces that address the diverse needs of students. With these insights, professionals can work towards seamlessly integrating inclusivity into the very fabric of educational environments. Our skilled team has many years of experience planning and installing equipment in public spaces like schools and universities.Please do get in touch if you need help or advice with your project or further support on the government requirements for equipment to support SEND students.

Accessible toileting facilities are crucial in public spaces to meet the diverse needs of individuals. Changing Places toilets, such as the modular Care Capsule™, provide a portable and adaptable solution for those with disabilities, ensuring they can enjoy their outings comfortably. A recent project with the Sussex Wildlife Trust exemplifies the effectiveness of Care Capsule™ in upgrading existing facilities. Despite space constraints in the visitors and education centres, a modular unit was swiftly installed adjacent to the main building, offering accessibility without the need for extensive construction within pre-existing structures.The project, initiated in January 2023, aimed for completion by the end of March 2023. The tight timeline was met through efficient processes, including a prompt site survey, proposal acceptance, and swift groundworks. Overcoming challenges like relocating a power cable, the team successfully hoisted the Care Capsule™ into place. The exterior was clad in local chestnut timber to harmonize with the surroundings, while interior features like Altro non-slip vinyl flooring, White Rock welded wall finishes, and height-adjustable units ensured both functionality and aesthetic coherence.

The North Northamptonshire County Council approached Care Spaces to create a Changing Place facility at East Carlton Country Park due to a high number of disabled visitors. With limited space in the existing Visitor Centre, we installed a Care Capsule™, a modular Changing Place toilet designed offsite for easy transport and assembly. Facing access challenges, the Care Capsule™ had to be delivered in kit form and assembled on-site. Electrical and plumbing services were extended to the location. To minimize environmental impact, ground screws replaced concrete for stability without harming the natural surroundings.The customisability of the Care Capsule™ allowed the client to match the unit with the Visitor Centre's aesthetics, featuring a brick exterior and a steel security door. The unit met Changing Places standards, including Fibo® waterproof internal cladding. Care Spaces provided awareness training to park staff, and the client is pleased with the results, emphasizing the importance of accessible facilities for all visitors. Cllr Matthew Binley expressed delight, stating the facility at East Carlton Countryside Park ensures worry-free visits for everyone.

Maggie’s Centre’s provide free practical, emotional and socialsupport to people with cancer, and their family and friends.Founded upon Maggie Keswick Jencks’ view that people shouldnot “lose the joy of living in the fear of dying”, each Maggie’sCentre is designed to alleviate the clinical and dispirited feel ofhospital environments, while enabling patients to feel empoweredand comfortable.Architects dRMM, chose to use tulipwood CLT for the positiveinfluence the material has on people and for its beauty, strength,and warmth. With research suggesting wooden structures canhelp lower blood pressure and pulse rates, the Wood HousingHumanity Report found that the material has more health andwellbeing benefitsthan any other.Visiting the Allgood showroom in London, dRMM were introducedto the Holt range, designed by Alex Mowat. With an elegant supercircular shape, the Holt range is handcrafted from European oakand provides the optimum grip for users.Incorporating Holt L shape lever handles, WC turns, coat hooks,doorstops and toilet roll holders as well as disabled toiletfurniture, Maggie’s Centre in Oldham has created a thoughtfulenvironment for its users.

Cauldwell International Children’s School is an £18 million purpose-built complex and the first of its kind in the UK, a national charity based in Staffordshire dedicated to improving the lives of disabled children.A modern but cost-effective solution was required by the client for their new washroom facilities. Due to this being a charitable organisation, there were budget constraints. Products offered by our competitors were too costly. Water saving was also an important factor to consider.Discussions took place with our product, design and specifications teams to fully understand the project. With the clients’ requirements in mind, we presented various options for review. We provided a sample of our stainless steel infra-red basin curved taps. The touch-free modern design was favourable and the sample was approved.Testimonial“We were thrilled with the approach the TYDE professionals took. They considered all of our pain points. Cost restraints made it more difficult but TYDE offer such a broad range of products, they were able to offer us a solution and we didn’t have to compromise on quality. We love the design and the integrated water-saving technology is a big bonus!”

Westoe Crown Village by Taylor Wimpey is a development of 685 homes near South Shields, Newcastle. The coastal neighbourhood offers a range of apartments, three-storey townhouses and two-storey houses. Designed with the assistance of local community organisations to ensure an innovative and stimulating environment, Northumbria Police also assisted and advised on the best ways to reduce the potential of crime within the environment.Westoe Crown Village also introduced a village square, primary and nursery school, community centre, healthy living facility, shops and offices – all essential for a growing area of Newcastle. The centre of the village was also designed to have a crucial emphasis on disabled access with ramps, dropped curbs and a lack of barriers implemented so as to create a fully accessible centre for those with additional needs.Carlton’s Ridings Gold Antique clay bricks were used to exemplary effect in the construction of the project with the soft pink, orange and red hues providing a summer-y, pleasant glow to the area, perfect for its close proximity to the beach. The brick also provides a fitting complement to the featured off-white facades that surround certain buildings.

The RHS’s flagship garden installed its first Changing Places toilet a few years ago, and is eagerly anticipating the opening of its second in June.Nora has Polymicrogyria, and as a result she cannot walk or use standard toilet facilities. Her family have always been determined that her disabilities should not stop her from enjoying the things that her twin sister Layla enjoys, such as going on holiday, swimming, or going to the cinema. For them, having a Changing Places toilet is their No. 1 requirement when researching places to go. That is why they decided to become members of RHS Garden Wisley, which boasts a fully accessible Changing Places toilet next to the Welcome building.RHS Garden Wisley is one of the UK’s best-loved gardens, attracting over a million visitors each year. The garden has expanded hugely over the years to its current size of 97ha (240 acres). With their focus on inspirational gardening – rather than a museum of plants and conservation, the dedicated staff are constantly assessing and updating plants and planting schemes to ensure there’s always something new to excite and inspire. The inclusion of a Changing Places toilet is a testament to this value to share the gardens with all of their visitors.

Ecoprod recently undertook a complete refurbishment of the washrooms at Dukes Court – 220,000 sq ft of premium office space in central Woking. The project started in January 2020 and handover was July 2020, somewhat later than expected due to the effect of the Covid 19 lockdown in Spring 2020.This project was delivered in collaboration with Designer Contracts Interiors UK Ltd who managed the flooring, walls, ceilings, doors, lighting, tiling, decorating and mirrors. Ecoprod supplied and managed the installation of the cubicles and IPS systems, all mechanical works, and the sanitaryware schedule and equipment.Cubicle and IPS systems – Petrus range by Formwise and Abet Laminati finish in Grey Zebrano5 WCs – Siamp Samoa Deluxe3 waterless urinals – URIMAT Ceramic Compact C22 URIMAT ESG urinal privacy dividers5 miscea LIGHT taps2 Tristone pure white wash troughs2 URIMAT Favorit hand dryers1 Mitsubishi Smart hand dryer1 Bespoke shower enclosure by Mega Glass1 Triton 80i shower setAccessible toilet – WC and handrail set by Disabled Toilets, basin by Conti +, tap Ultra by Conti+