Hoisting and Changing Facilities in Toilets

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Kingston Council is endeavouring to increase the provision of wheelchair accessible toilets which include a hoist and full-sized changing bench for those who need changing when they use the toilet.

Most facilities include a ceiling track hoist and a changing bed which is stored flat against the wall and folds down for use.

The Council's policy is that, for reasons of health and safety, users of these facilities are expected to provide their own slings, providing they are compatible with the hoisting equipment. If users have been provided with hoisting equipment in their homes by the Council, the slings will be compatible with the Sunrise Medical/Oxford hoists in public buildings.

Currently, provision is available at:

The Bentall Centre facilities consist of a fixed-height changing bench, stored flat against the wall when not in use, and a ceiling track hoist serving both the bench and the toilet. Note that the facilities are rather small and cramped, which may mean that they are not useable by some people. Users are normally expected to bring their own slings (see above), but disposable slings are available for purchase from the Centre Management Suite if necessary. There is no shower facility.

There is a changing facility, including a shower, located in the Health Suite at Kingfisher Leisure Centre in Kingston. There is a fixed-height changing bench, stored flat against the wall, which also acts as a shower stretcher so that a disabled person can be showered while lying on the bench. The facility is not for the exclusive use of disabled people but is shared with users of the health suite. A mobile hoist is available, which is kept by the swimming pool but can be wheeled into the changing facility when required. Users are normally expected to bring their own slings (see above).

In certain circumstances, disabled people and their carers who need full changing facilities for toileting may use the facility even if they have not paid to use the leisure centre - a request should be made at reception. If the disabled person is a child or a young person, it is helpful to show their 'I-Count' card.

There is a changing facility, including a shower, located in the pool changing area at the Malden Centre, Blagdon Road, New Malden. The facilities include a fixed-height changing bench, stored flat against the wall, which also acts as a shower stretcher so that a disabled person can be showered while lying on the bench. The facility is not for the exclusive use of disabled people because it is also used for baby changing. A ceiling track hoist serves both the bench and the toilet. Users are normally expected to bring their own slings (see above).

In certain circumstances, disabled people and their carers who need full changing facilities for toileting may use the facility even if they have not paid to use the leisure centre - a request should be made at reception. If the disabled person is a child or a young person, it is helpful to show their 'I-Count' card.

Toilets with full hoisting and changing facilities are available at the Crescent Resource Centre and the Causeway Centre, both in Cocks Crescent, New Malden.

Full details of the facilities available at these day centres, including opening hours and a location map, are available on the Changing Places website, using the following links: