Changing Places Toilets
Changing Places Toilets
What Are Changing Places Toilets?
Changing Places toilets are not just accessible toilets — they are fully equipped, purpose-built facilities designed for people with complex or high support needs.
They exist because standard accessible toilets do not meet the needs of many disabled people.
A Changing Places toilet provides a safe, clean environment where a person can be toileted, changed, and supported with dignity.
These facilities are designed for people who cannot use a standard accessible toilet, including those who require full assistance, specialised equipment, or support from more than one caregiver.
Why Standard Accessible Toilets Are Not Enough
Standard accessible toilets are designed for independent or semi-independent use.
But many people:
Cannot transfer independently
Require an adult-sized changing surface
Need hoisting support
Require assistance from one or two caregivers
Without the right space and equipment, families are forced into unsafe or undignified situations.
In many cases, this means:
Being changed on the floor
Returning home early
Avoiding public spaces altogether
Changing Places toilets exist to solve this problem.
Designed for Complex Needs
A Changing Places facility is built around real-world use, not minimum compliance.
These spaces are designed to support:
Children with high support needs
Adults with disabilities
People with complex medical conditions
People who require full assistance
Families and caregivers
They provide a level of accessibility that goes far beyond standard design.
Essential Features of a Changing Places Toilet
Every Changing Places toilet includes specific equipment and design features to ensure it works properly for users.
These include:
A height-adjustable adult-sized changing table
A ceiling track hoist system (or mobile hoist)
A height-adjustable basin
A toilet with space on both sides for assisted transfer
Privacy screens or curtains
A large, open layout to allow movement
These features are not optional — they are required so the space can be used safely and consistently.
Space for Two Caregivers
One of the most important differences is space.
Changing Places toilets are designed to allow:
A wheelchair user
Plus one or two caregivers
This means there must be enough room for:
Safe movement
Positioning of equipment
Assisted transfers
Emergency situations
Standard accessible toilets simply do not provide this level of space.
Safety Is Built Into the Design
Changing Places toilets include features specifically designed to reduce risk.
These may include:
Non-slip flooring
A well-designed wet area with shower
Large waste bins for disposable products
Sharps disposal where required
Clear layout to avoid hazards
A properly designed space protects both the user and the caregiver.
Consistent Design You Can Trust
One of the strengths of the Changing Places system is consistency.
Facilities must meet strict criteria and be accredited before they can use the Changing Places name or symbol.
This means users can trust that when they arrive:
The equipment will be there
The layout will work
The space will meet their needs
Consistency allows families to plan outings with confidence.
Access Systems and Availability
Many Changing Places toilets use controlled access systems.
This may include:
Swipe card access
Registered user systems
Intercom entry
This ensures the facility is used for its intended purpose and remains available when needed.
While this may seem restrictive, it helps maintain the quality and usability of the space.
Changing Places in New Zealand
Changing Places is still developing in New Zealand.
There are currently only a small number of these facilities across the country, meaning access is limited.
This highlights a significant gap in inclusive infrastructure.
For many families, the lack of Changing Places toilets means certain destinations are simply not an option.
Why They Matter in Playgrounds
In inclusive playgrounds, Changing Places toilets can be the difference between a short visit and a full day out.
Without them:
Families may leave early
Children may miss out
Caregivers face unnecessary stress
With them:
Families stay longer
Children can participate fully
Playgrounds become truly inclusive destinations
Inclusive play is not just about equipment. It is about supporting the full experience.
Beyond Compliance — Designing for Real Life
There are currently no mandatory building code requirements in New Zealand specifically for Changing Places facilities.
Instead, they rely on accreditation to ensure quality and consistency.
This means councils and designers must make a conscious decision to include them.
Choosing to install a Changing Places toilet is a commitment to real inclusion — not just compliance.
Common Mistakes and Misunderstandings
Changing Places toilets are sometimes misunderstood or incorrectly implemented.
Common issues include:
Treating them as optional extras
Underestimating the space required
Providing equipment without proper layout
Failing to maintain the facility
Locating them too far from key areas
These mistakes reduce usability and limit their impact.
A Lived Experience View
From lived experience, Changing Places toilets are life-changing.
They provide dignity where there was none.
They create access where there was exclusion.
They allow families to participate in everyday life.
Without them, many public spaces remain out of reach.
With them, inclusion becomes real.
Final Thought
A truly inclusive playground does not stop at accessible equipment or pathways.
It must include facilities that support every user — including those with the highest support needs.
Changing Places toilets are not a luxury.
They are essential infrastructure for inclusion.
Because everyone deserves the right to stay, to participate, and to belong.