Design

Changing Places Signage

Changing Places toilets have an instantly recognisable symbol which helps people who need them to recognise them. This symbol can only be displayed on facilities that meet the minimum required standard for registered Changing Places status.

The easily identifiable symbol can be used in several ways, but a simple approach is best. For most venues, a sign on the door of the toilet, or above it will suffice.

If the facility is open access or in a public place you may consider displaying a sign explaining what the toilet is for. This can help deter those who don’t need the toilet from using it. For example:

This is a Changing Places toilet. It is provided for people with multiple or profound disabilities who are accompanied by one or more assistant.

If the facility is kept locked, then you will need to display instructions on how a key can be obtained. Some larger venues may choose to install a call button or intercom. If the facility is accessible with a Radar key, this should also be displayed near the entrance.

Wayfinding Signage for Changing Places

Wayfinding signs are signs giving directions along a customer’s route, meaning they can easily find what they are looking for without having to refer to a map or memorise directions.

For a Changing Places facility, wayfinding signs can include messages such as the distance left to the destination or simple instructions such as ‘turn left’ – alongside the Changing Places symbol.

Wayfinding signage may not be necessary for smaller buildings but is often needed in large outdoor attractions, such as theme parks. Larger buildings such as airports or hospitals may also need to incorporate wayfinding signs for Changing Places facilities.

If possible, try to incorporate Changing Places wayfinding signs with existing toilet signage, as this is the first place visitors will look for the recognisable symbol.

Wayfinding signage is key element – particularly in large buildings, such as hospitals – that is commonly overlooked. Modular Changing Places toilets often avoid this problem due to the increased visibility of the facility as a whole.

Interior Signage

The interior of your Changing Places toilet should display information necessary for guests to be safe and the facility to be kept hygienic.

A clear sign should display the weight limit for the hoist and bench, as well as for instructions on use. The Changing Places consortium provide suggested working here.

Using the Changing Places Symbol Inside Guides & Maps

Alongside wayfinding signs and door signage, it’s also helpful to include the Changing Places symbol and directions inside any maps or brochures given to visitors.

In addition to being helpful, if you include a short piece of information on who Changing Places are for and why they’re needed it can help with awareness in the wider public.