Second Round of Funding for Changing Places Toilets Announced
The Government has announced that Local Authorities that did not apply for funding for Changing Places in the last round can now make an application. This Round 2 prospectus continues the Government’s journey to make our shops, high streets and public places much more accessible. The value of resource available in round 2 will be up to £6.5 million.
Full details of this latest Government announcement can be found here
Eligible local authorities must submit their expressions of interest by 30th September 2022 to to receive a proportion of the funding, to install facilities in their communities and help more residents enjoy a worry-free day out.
Local authorities are guided to work with local partners including voluntary and community groups, parish and town councils and others to identify the potential to install new Changing Places toilets in their area and work with building owners to assess the viability of potential projects.
Previously, the Government announced the allocation of funding for new Changing Places Toilet projects in England. In the first application round, £23.5 M worth of funding was allocated across 191 councils allowing more than 510 new Changing Places Toilets to be installed across England.
This funding will make a massive difference to the lives of disabled people across England and their families, opening up venues and locations that previously many disabled people were just unable to access, or to visit for longer periods of time.
Eddie Hughes MP, Minister for Rough Sleeping and Housing, said:
“We want to deliver as many new facilities as possible with the Changing Places Fund. But we recognise that government investment alone can only do so much. We also need to continue work with charities and grass-root organisations – many who have long-campaigned for change – utilise their expertise and knowledge to build a more equal society after COVID.””
Nick Kent, Co-Founder Aveso Changing Places, said:
“This is fantastic news to see the second phase, and a further £6.5 million resource available for 155 Local Authorities to access. It has been very encouraging to see all the project kick-offs from the first round of funding, and this second round will help to ensure an even better spread of essential Changing Places Toilets across England. Once again, huge congratulations to all the campaigners on the ground, the team at Changing Places UK, Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities and Muscular Dystrophy UK for all their determination and hard work.”
Here at Aveso we have experts on-hand with advice and planning support for your Changing Places Toilet project.
Call us on 01242 822979 or email info@aveso.co.uk
If you work for a Local Authority and need support and advice following the announcement, visit our dedicated page:
ABOUT AVESO
The team at Aveso are passionate about Changing Places toilets. We have supported the official Changing Places campaign since 2013, and can provide free, expert advice on all aspects of the Changing Places planning and design process.
ABOUT ASTOR BANNERMAN
Astor Bannerman offer the full range of products specified by Changing Places regulations, including fixed and mobile changing tables, hoists, height adjustable washbasins, toilets and accessories. They are always developing new products, and are proud to have developed the Astor Invincible, the first changing table designed specifically for Changing Places toilets.