After years of work behind the scenes, Falmouth Town Council has finally been able to open its first fully accessible toilet.

The new Changing Places toilet facility at Grove Place was opened by town mayor Kirstie Edwards on Monday (April 23). 

Designed to be fully accessible, this new facility caters to individuals with profound and multiple disabilities who require assistance in using the toilet.

Equipped with specialized amenities such as a hoist and changing bench, the facility also offers ample space for up to two carers to aid an individual who may not be able to transfer to a toilet by themselves.

Falmouth Packet: Inside the fully accessible looInside the fully accessible loo (Image: FTC)

Unlike standard accessible toilets, which often fall short on meeting the needs of individuals with profound learning disabilities, spinal injuries, or stroke, this facility ensures inclusivity and comfort for all visitors.

“Falmouth Town Council is thrilled to have delivered this much-needed resource to our community as part of our commitment to accessibility and inclusion and we extend our gratitude to all those involved in making this project a reality” said Falmouth Town Mayor, Kirstie Edwards.

“With this new Changing Places facility, individuals with complex needs, as well as their families and carers, can enjoy peace of mind knowing that suitable toilet facilities are readily available when visiting Falmouth.”

Falmouth Packet: Access to the toilet is through Falmouth Town CouncilAccess to the toilet is through Falmouth Town Council (Image: FTC)

Jointly funded by a government grant from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities and Falmouth Town Council, in collaboration with Muscular Dystrophy UK, the facility is located next to the existing public toilets at Grove Place car park and is registered with the Changing Places website.

Pictured cutting the ribbon at the official opening ceremony is Mayor Cllr Kirstie Edwards. Cornwall Cllr and Falmouth Town Cllr Jayne Kirkham also attended the opening as did Falmouth Town Cllr Jude Robinson, both of whom were instrumental in getting the project off the ground and driving it forward.

Also pictured is Richard Gates, town manager and Andy Medlin, facilities manager, who oversaw the project's delivery.

For access to the Changing Places facility please contact Falmouth Town Council on 01326 315 559.