New Changing Places facility has opened in Polegate

Over £70,000 of funding, secured by Wealden District Council, for the Changing Places facility was received from the Department of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities' (DLUHC) Changing Places Fund.

This is the third Changing Place facility within the district to receive funding from this fund. The other two facilities are located at Seven Sisters Country Park and Sea Road car park, Pevensey Bay.

This facility has been delivered by Polegate Town Council with the support of Wealden District Council and Muscular Dystrophy UK (DLUHC's delivery partner). The modular unit was supplied and installed by Rise Adaptions.

Visitors to the area will now be able to use a completely accessible Changing Places facility which is designed to provide sufficient space and equipment for people who are not able to use a toilet independently.

Changing Places provide a height adjustable changing bench, a peninsular toilet, and a celling hoist, in addition to space for carers.

It is estimated that more than a quarter of a million people in the UK need Changing Places toilets.

Councillor Kelvin Williams, Wealden's portfolio holder for Public Health, Wellbeing and Asset Management, said, "The installation of Changing Places facilities in Wealden provides people with disabilities a bigger changing space, and equipment which might be needed for people with limited mobility to use or for carers to give assistance. It is important that everyone feels included in our district whether they are visiting or living in it."

Polegate Town Council's Mayor, Councillor Dan Dunbar expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "This facility is a fantastic addition to the area. The expanded accommodations and specialised equipment cater to the needs of individuals with disabilities and their caregivers. We have hosted a number of sporting activity groups on the recreation ground who will benefit from the new facility along with visitors to our town."