Training is an essential (yet somewhat overlooked) element of any successful Changing Places project. There is a lot to consider, so for clarity, we’ve split this article info two sections:
1. Pre-Installation– Getting buy-in for your project; and
2. Post-Installation – Managing and promoting your facility.
(Read on or click here to skip to section two).
Training is a key part of the buy-in process for many organisations – particularly those with limited awareness surrounding the issues disabled people face when it comes to finding a suitable toilet.
That’s why, in partnership with Access For All UK, we routinely offer free training seminars for organisations interested in becoming more inclusive with a Changing Places toilet.
At the very beginning, before you have made any commitments, a Changing Places seminar is a helpful way to fully understand why these toilets are needed, the types of people that use them, the issues they face, and how you can be more inclusive.
Changing Places training is usually held over half-a-day , but can be extended if required. The primary goal is to ensure all stakeholders fully understand the Changing Places concept and how installing a toilet will help people. You can expect to learn:
• How a CP toilet will benefit your business/community
• What CP toilets are and who needs to use them
• How Changing Places toilets differ from standard accessible toilets
• The equipment required in a Changing Places toilet
• How existing spaces be adapted into a Changing Places facility
• What are the options for installation and the associated costs
• H&S requirements, including risk assessments
• What management and maintenance is required
• Sources of funding available and how to apply
There are a few reasons Changing Places training will be of benefit to you and your organisation. You will increase your understanding of these life-changing facilities, as well as help gain access to funding. Most importantly, the session is a great way to arm yourself with all the information you need to secure buy-in for your project.
The more people that are aware of these toilets, why they’re needed, and the way they can benefit peoples lives, the better.
The people that attend our monthly sessions work in a wide range of occupations across all sectors, including Tourist officers, Marketing managers, H&S officers, Inclusivity and accessibility professionals, Managing directors, Health care professionals, Community groups, Funding officers, and Charity representatives.
If you’ve not installed a Changing Places yet but are looking to do so, then please register for one of our monthly online seminars. The sessions are free and run for 90-minutes.
Whether you have installed a new modular Changing Places toilet or adapted an existing space, once your project is nearing completion there is still a lot to consider.
From managing the toilet on a day-to-day basis to marketing your new facility, there is more to installation than building a toilet and calling it a day. The good news is that there is plenty of help available either from access consultants or access training providers.
Once your toilet has been installed, there are multiple areas you may want to cover in training including:
Facility/Equipment Use – Although it is not recommended that your staff assist users with a Changing Places toilet, it does help that all staff have an idea of how the equipment will be used.
Health & Safety – Another important area is the management of safety when it comes to using the toilet. What to do in emergencies and the risk to users or staff. Although a risk assessment should be done, training can help identify any further risks and how to reduce them.
Awareness – It is important all staff members understand the importance of the toilet and why it is a much-needed facility. Raising awareness through training makes the culture of your business more inclusive.
Access – Access to your Changing Places toilet may either be through a radar key, keypad, or it could be open access. Training will help you identify the best method for your business and what staff need to be aware of (visitors asking for a key or code, for example).
Marketing – Letting potential users know you have a Changing Places toilet is key to seeing a return on your investment. Training can help identify ways to get the message out there and generate ideas.
Finally, it’s worth noting that whilst we provide our standard Changing Places training for all RISE clients upon project completion, this can be tailored and enhanced.
Working with our partners at Access For All UK, we can provide more comprehensive auditing and training. One of our more popular courses is the one-day Accessibility Champion Training, which provides a key member of your team with the knowledge and tools to train other colleagues in accessibility awareness.
You’ve got this far, so why not send us a quick message and discover how we can support your organisation…
Call 07729 224 738 or email hello@riseadapt.co.uk
We’re open Monday to Friday, 08:00-18:00.
To learn more about Changing Places, why not download our brochure or attend one of our monthly online seminars.
Call: 07729 224 738
email: hello@riseadapt.co.uk
08:00-18:00, Mon-Fri
To learn more about Changing Places, why not download our brochure or attend one of our monthly online seminars.
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