City museum is first in Scotland to get two Changing Places toilets
AGLASGOW museum has become the first in Scotland to have two Changing Places toilets. The Burrell Collection has installed the facilities which have more space and equipment such as ceiling hoists and heightadjustable, adult-sized changing benches to make the attraction more accessible for people with disabilities.
Laura Rutherford, of PAMIS (Promoting a More Inclusive Society), is the charity’s Changing Places Campaign Co-ordinator. She visited the museum with her 10-year-old son Brody, and described the new toilets as “lifechanging.”
She said: “PAMIS is delighted that the Burrell Collection has installed not one, but two Changing Places toilets in its new refurbishment.
“The increased accessibility at the museum will enable disabled people, their families, and carers to visit from Glasgow and afar.
“Glasgow Life’s commitment to installing Changing Places toilets at their venues demonstrates they recognise the importance of these life-changing facilities.”
PAMIS is co-chair of the UK Changing Places toilet consortium, which was established in 2006.
The consortium campaigns throughout the UK and beyond for Changing Places toilets to be provided in all public places, including city centres, shopping centres, railway stations, airports and leisure complexes.
Campaigner Jill Clark, from Knightswood, has been fighting for disability rights for more than seven years.
“Standard accessible toilets do not meet the needs of people with a disability,” she explained.
“More than a quarter of a million people with a disability in the UK need extra space and equipment to be able to use the toilet safely and comfortably.”
Jill, who has cerebral palsy and uses a wheelchair, said: “These needs are met by Changing Places toilets. I had fantastic morning at the Burrell Collection now everyone can enjoy it too.”
Caroline Currie, Learning and
Access Curator for Glasgow Life, said: “Glasgow Burrell Collection hopes to welcome thousands of people every year. The CPT makes the museum fully accessible, meaning more people can enjoy a day out without having to leave early, or worse, not go out at all just in case they need the toilet.”
The Burrell Collection, which opened in March following a multimillion pound redevelopment, also has a wider step-free entrance, an accessible path joining the play park with the new café terrace, additional accessible toilets and an accessible lift.
Caroline added: “By including a wide range of community groups to assist with how a work of art’s story is told, we have introduced the use of BSL, captions and 10 languages in the digital displays.
“By listening to the challenges often faced by people with physical and sensory disabilities, the galleries and displays have been designed to make sure everyone can access them.”