19th of July is #CPAD2024 – Changing Places Awareness Day and Moto is proud to share that we have over 30 Changing Places Toilets installed across our network with the help of Innova and Part-Funding through Department for Transport.
At Moto, we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to travel freely regardless of their physical needs, that’s why we are proud to have more Changing Places Toilets than any other MSA operator in the UK.
As car travel accounts for three in five journeys undertaken by a person with a severe disability, the majority of focus still remains on improving accessibility. In 2024, it is predicted that over a quarter of a million road trips will be made by people with severe disabilities, making it even more important that this challenge is overcome.
To address the gap, a collaboration between Moto and disability technology expert Innova Care Concepts has delivered 30 Changing Places Toilet facilities at Moto Services locations across England – unique spaces which go well beyond standard accessible toilets and offer convenience to every visitor regardless of their disability. Part funded through the Department for Transport’s Changing Places Toilet £2m fund, a further five Changing Places Toilets will also be installed and registered later this year at Moto Service Areas.
“All road users should expect to be treated with the same level of respect and understanding. At Moto we are totally committed to making our locations a place that everyone can easily access to reset and recharge” said Ken McMeikan, CEO of Moto Hospitality.
“Our continued work with Innova and the installation of more Changing Places Toilets is a hugely important element of ensuring we deliver on that. As the first motorway services provider to reach the milestone of installing 30 Changing Places Toilet facilities, we’re delighted to be playing our part so that individuals travelling with severe disabilities can undertake car journeys with confidence” he added.
Key features unique to these facilities include:
- Larger size than normal toilet facilities: CP Toilets are larger than standard accessible toilets to allow for freedom of movement, and typically have a minimum floor area of 12 square meters, providing ample space for a wheelchair user and up to two assistants.
- Adjustable Changing Bench: CP Toilets include a height-adjustable changing bench which allows for safe and comfortable transfers – the bench is padded and designed to be easy to clean.
- Hoist System: CP Toilets are equipped with a ceiling-mounted hoist system to assist with lifting and transferring individuals who cannot independently move from a wheelchair to the toilet or changing bench, with comfort and dignity.
- Height-Adjustable Washbasin: The washbasin in a CP Toilet is designed to be height-adjustable, making it accessible for both wheelchair users and standing individuals. It ensures that people with different needs can comfortably use the facilities.
- Non-Slip Flooring: To ensure safety, CP Toilets typically have non-slip flooring to prevent accidents and provide stability for wheelchair users.
- Privacy and Support Rails: These facilities often feature privacy screens or curtains to ensure the user’s privacy and dignity. Support rails are installed throughout the Changing Place, to provide additional assistance and stability.
To find a Changing Places Toilet on your journey, visit https://moto-way.com/at-moto/changing-places/ for more information
