Published 19 November 2021
Councillors have agreed to request additional budget to enhance the provision of Changing Place Toilets (CPT) in West Dunbartonshire.
CPT facilities provide larger, accessible toilets, to address the needs of people who have profound and multiple physical disabilities and learning difficulties.
As well as providing additional space, they contain equipment including hoists, curtains, adult-sized changing benches and enough room for carers to assist.
While a number of CPTs are available in learning environments across West Dunbartonshire, the additional funding will be used to introduce publicly available facilities.
The proposed locations for the toilets are at Balloch Bus Stance toilets; the Concord Community Centre; Dalmuir Community Centre; and Clydebank East Community Centre.
A further period of survey will be undertaken at these sites, with building warrant applications required for the locations.
It is proposed that the projects would be completed in financial year 2022/23.
Councillor Iain McLaren, Convener of Infrastructure, Regeneration and Economic Development, said: “For many people who have physical challenges and disabilities, standard toilet accommodation is totally inadequate or impractical to use. CPTs provide a better quality of life for people and allow them and their carers to plan activities with confidence in the areas where these facilities are located.”
Councillor Diane Docherty, Vice Convener of Infrastructure, Regeneration and Economic Development, added: “The proposed introduction of these Changing Place Toilets across our areas would make a huge difference to people who, for a number of reasons, struggle to use existing public facilities. I feel strongly that if we make this budget commitment, we are making an important investment that allows us to support individuals to live independently and with dignity.”
The proposed £100,000 budget request will be considered at a future Council meeting.