Exeter CityChanging Places toilets are larger than a standard accessible toilet and include a height-adjustable bench, a hoist, shower and room for a wheelchair and up to two cares.
Standard accessible toilets do not meet the needs of all people with a disability. People with profound and multiple learning disabilities, as well as people with other physical disabilities such as spinal injuries, muscular dystrophy and multiple sclerosis often need extra equipment and space to allow them to use the toilets safely and comfortably. These needs are met by Changing Places toilets.
Although the new facility is housed in the Stagecoach Adam Stansfield Stand it is open to all home and away supporters.
The changing places facility has been a collaboration between the club and the Exeter City Disabled Supporters Association.
The DSA raised £3000, which has paid for the adjustable bench, portable hoist and privacy screen with funds raised through their Christmas draws and bucket collections.
Nick Saunders, ECDSA chairman said: “We at ECDSA strive to ensure access for all. The Changing Places room is a good chance to make an improvement that has been missing”. “This is a fantastic facility that is the first in Devon at a professional football club. This has all been made possible by the hard work of the ECDSA committee, it’s members and the fans of Exeter City Football Club.”
Justin Quick, Exeter City’s general manager said: “Exeter City Football Club is constantly striving to move forward and improve the facilities for all supporters. “Changing Places was high on the agenda when discussing the facilities in the new stand. We are delighted that in working with ECDSA the facility is now officially open.”
Elaine Davis, on behalf of the Supporters’ Trust added: “As a Supporters owned club, we are proud to look after all our supporters, both home and away, who will use this fantastic new facility at the Park.”