A brand new custom-made toilet and changing facility designed specifically to support those who care for people with disabilities has recently been unveiled at Birmingham Airport.
(Left to right) Margaret and Julie Clough, with Jackie Baker, Terminal Services Contracts Manager at Birmingham Airport, during the unveiling of the new Changing Places facility.
Changing Places toilets cater for people who have profound and multiple learning disabilities (PMLD) and other people with severe disabilities who need the support of at least one carer.
The newly installed facility, which is situated inside the main departure lounge, was recently opened by Margaret Clough, a devoted campaigner for easy access in UK airports.
65-year-old Margaret from Lichfield, whose daughter Julie has Cerebral Palsy, has played an instrumental role throughout the project, offering key advice and providing a valuable insight into the needs of those who care for people with disabilities.
After seeing the project completed, a jubilant Margaret said: “We’re so pleased Birmingham Airport has taken the decision to install a Changing Places toilet. This demonstrates their commitment towards creating a safe and easy way for carers and those with disabilities to travel freely through the airport.
“This new changing facility will make a huge difference to Julie and other families who need additional support when flying out from Birmingham.”
The state-of-the-art toilet is fitted with a height adjustable changing bench, an overhead hoist system and enough space to ensure the bench and toilet can be approached from either side in a wheelchair.
Jackie Baker, Terminal Services Contracts Manager at Birmingham Airport, said: “We are extremely passionate about improving the passenger experience here at the airport and continually look at new ways we can deliver a better service.
“By installing this excellent new facility, we believe it will go a long way towards achieving our goal, making it much easier for families with limitations to travel from Birmingham without worry.”
The Changing Places campaign is run by the Changing Places Consortium and sponsored by Total Hygiene.
