Cornwall has five new Changing Places toilets available to use, with a sixth opening imminently. Larger than standard accessible toilets, the facilities feature extra equipment such as hoists and changing benches.

There are now two Changing Places in Truro - one next to bus station, the other in Boscawen Park (both managed by Truro City Council) – with the others in Falmouth and St Ives (managed by their respective town councils) and Seaton (managed by Deviock Parish Council). Facilities in Wadebridge, managed by Wadebridge Town Council, are due to open by the end of July.

Deviock parish resident Katherine Kowalski explained how standard ‘accessible’ toilets are are unsuitable for many disabled people, including her 12-year-old son.

“This means having to be changed on toilet floors or in the back of a car,” she said. “It’s uncomfortable, unhygienic and puts us all at risk of injury. This makes days out incredibly difficult, to the point we end up avoid them altogether.

"Spending time in nature is essential for wellbeing. Seaton already offers so much with its flat Country Park trails, convenient parking and ramped access onto the beach - a Changing Places Toilet now makes it truly accessible."

Cornwall Council received government funding in 2022 to deliver the new facilities in partnership with local councils.

Cllr Carol Mould, cabinet member for neighbourhoods, said: “It’s fantastic to see these facilities open and in use, meaning Cornwall’s beaches, countryside and high streets are more accessible for disabled people and their carers.”

For more information about Changing Places facilities and venues, visit www.changing-places.org/find