Require accessible changing benches for disabled children in public venues

Introduce requirements for large public venues such as supermarkets and family attractions to provide accessible changing benches so disabled children who outgrow baby changing tables can be safely changed in public places

Many disabled children outgrow baby changing tables by around 2–3 years old but still require continence or medical care. Without suitable facilities, families are often forced to change children on toilet floors, in public spaces, or leave venues early. Some families avoid going out entirely. Accessible changing benches would allow disabled children to be cared for safely and with dignity in public places.

Statutory guidance in Approved Document M (Volume 2: Access to and use of buildings) of the Building Regulations 2010 sets out provision for Changing Places facilities in new buildings other than dwellings (or those undergoing major redevelopment) which fall above a certain size threshold. This includes certain types of large public buildings, such as places of assembly, recreation and entertainment, plus larger retail, shopping malls, sport and leisure buildings, and in hospitals, primary care, crematoria and cemetery buildings.

Changing Places toilets are larger accessible toilets for individuals with complex and multiple disabilities and includes equipment such as hoists, curtains, adult-sized changing benches and space for carers.

The government works closely with the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) to review building standards across England, including requirements for safe and accessible changing facilities.

Further details can be found in paragraphs 5.5, 5.6, and 5.7 of Approved Document M, Volume 2: Access to and use of buildings. This can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/access-to-and-use-of-buildings-approved-document-m

Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government