Tesco installs 100th Changing Places facility to support disabled people

Retail giant Tesco has installed its 100th Changing Places facility at its Watford Extra store to enable disabled customers to use toilets safely and comfortably.

The installation marks a three-year-long partnership between Muscular Dystrophy UK (MDUK), Pamis, Aveso, Tesco and the Changing Places Consortium. The consortium seeks to highlight and help the more than 250,000 disabled people across the UK who are unable to use standard toilet facilities.

Robert Burley, Director of Campaigns, Care and Support at MDUK, which co-chairs the Changing Places Consortium, said: “Everyone has the right to use a public toilet as and when they need to, so having access to a Changing Places facility is vital for disabled people.

“We are delighted that Tesco has installed 100 Changing Places toilets in the UK. Having the support of such a high-profile retailer is a much-needed step forward in our campaign and this 100th install is an excellent milestone.

“We hope other retailers and venues are encouraged to follow suit and help tackle the exclusion many disabled people face.”

In July, the UK Government has announced that Changing Places toilets for disabled people will become mandatory in new public buildings from next year, which is set to help more than 250,000 severely disabled people across England.

This highlights the importance of Changing Places facilities in helping disabled people to get out and about comfortably and safely.

Alessandra Bellini, Tesco Chief Customer Officer, commented: “We want Tesco to be a place where everyone feels welcome to work and shop, and we are delighted to launch our 100th Changing Places facility in our Watford Extra.

“Over a quarter of a million people in the UK use the support of a carer or family member to use bathroom facilities while shopping, and we’re pleased to be able to offer a little help to customers and carers who will benefit from Changing Places when they shop with us.”