Everyone has a role to play in improving accessibility. If a Changing Place Toilet (CPT) is not available in your area, you can help make it happen
By engaging with local authorities, businesses and public venues, you can support the delivery of inclusive facilities that enable people with disabilities to participate fully in everyday life. Whether attending a family outing, going to a rugby game or working in your local hospital every disabled person has a right to proper bathroom facilities.
Many CPTs are delivered because individuals and families speak up and that’s why YOUR VOICE MATTERS. Your experience can
- Highlight real need
- Influence decision-makers
- Support funding and planning applications
- Help prioritise accessibility in your community.
You can request a CPT in places such as
- Local County Councils
- Shopping centres
- Sports stadiums and leisure facilities
- Transport hubs, such as: airports, train and bus stations
- Tourist attractions
- Cinemas
- Hospitals
- Public buildings and parks
- the list is endless
“If a space is open to the public, it should be accessible to everyone”
How to Make a Request
Each local authority has an Access Officer responsible for accessibility. Write/email him/her and state your wish list
- The need for a CPT in your locality
- How it would benefit users
- Suggest locations
When making your request, it helps to refer to
- Building Regulations Part M (Access & Use) 2022
- Disability Act 2005 which promotes access to public services and buildings
- Equal Status Act 2000-2018 which prohibits discrimination in access to goods and services
- UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities UNCRPD which supports the right to accessibility and participation in society
- Guidance from the National Disability Authority NDA which recommends provision and proper design of accessible facilities
Remember – you don’t need to be legal; just referencing these Acts and Agencies strengthens your request.
When contacting shopping centres or venues highlight customer inclusion with a strong emphasise on reputation and accessibility leadership. Mention that CPTs
- Increase footfall
- Support families and carers
- Align with corporate social responsibility
Spread Awareness
Remember we are here to help. Sharing your stories with us builds awareness especially across our social media platforms. You can post on your social media platforms and tag us, your local authority representatives, venues or email us at changingplacesireland@gmail.com and we can post up your story for you.
If you come across a CPT facility that isn’t registered with us, please encourage they contact us to register at changingplacesireland@gmail.com
“Change happens when people speak up – your voice can help create accessible spaces for everyone”
Example Email for Local Authorities
Dear Access Officer
I hope this this email finds you well
I am writing to request the provision of a Changing Place Toilet (CPT) within [county/location] supporting inclusive access for people with complex disabilities.
Changing Places Toilets enable individuals and their families to confidently access public spaces, services and community life, supporting dignity, comfort and participation.
The provision of CPTs aligns with national policy and legislation, including Building Regulations Part M (Access & Use) 2022, the Disability Act 2005, the Equal Status Acts 2000-2018 and Irelands commitments under the UNCRPD, all of which support equal access and inclusion.
Providing a CPT in [suggested location-e.g. town centre, park, public building] would:
- Enhance accessibility and inclusion
- Support individuals, families and carers
- Enable greater participation in working and community life
- Demonstrate leadership in universal design and best practice
I would welcome the opportunity to see this considered as part of current or future accessibility planning within the county.
Thank you for your continued commitment to improving accessibility. I would appreciate any update you may be able to provide.
Kind regards
[your name]
[optional: contact details]