People with complex care needs who require specialised facilities when out and about will be able to benefit from a new 'changing places' toilet which has been installed at North Cambs Hospital in Wisbech.

These toilets are larger, accessible toilets for people who cannot use standard accessible toilets, with equipment such as hoists, curtains, adult-sized changing benches, and space for carers.

Malcolm Bruce, chair of the Friends of North Cambs Hospital, said: "The Friends of the Wisbech Hospitals are delighted to have contributed towards the funding of the 'changing places' facility. 

“This will be an invaluable asset to our local community and is the first of a significant investment by the Friends towards the re-development of the North Cambridgeshire Hospital site." 

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The new facility will be available to use from November 1 during the hours the hospital is open.

It will support people with profound and multiple learning disabilities, as well as those with other physical disabilities who require extra equipment and space to allow them to use the toilet safely and comfortably.

Kate Howard, chief nurse at Cambridgeshire Community Services NHS Trust, the hospital’s landlord, said: “Being able to use a toilet that is suitable for your needs is a basic human right. 

“I’m delighted that this new facility will enhance the lives of people with severe disabilities, as well as their families and carers.

“We’re constantly striving to make our community sites more accessible and inclusive, and the addition of a 'changing places' toilet will help to tackle the exclusion that many disabled people face.

“It will also enable visitors to enjoy everything the local community has to offer with dignity and freedom.”