Ancient history, modern facilities - Changing Places Toilet
4
4
Date of visit: October 2024
I am a disabled person. I have experience of challenges around: a hidden impairment, accessing toilets and moving around.
I use or have experience of: changing places toilet, disabled toilet, hidden impairment, powerchair, toilet with hoist, toilets, walking aid, wheelchair
Overall Rating
Good
Most people visit the Manchester Museum to see Stan, the T-Rex or the tiny frogs in the vivarium (cute) but I popped along to check out the Changing Places toilet. This review solely relates to the Changing Places toilet, there will be a separate review for the museum as a whole.
Disabled Access In and Around
Average
There is level access throughout the building, with lifts to all floors which feature braille markings and handrails. There was no induction loop or alternative signage to the toilet.
Parking & Transport
Good
There are 3 accessible parking spaces on Bridgeford Street, which runs along the side of the museum. The 15, 18, 41, 43, 53, 87, 111, 142, 143, 147, V1, V2, and V4 bus services stop and collect on nearby Oxford Street. Bike parking is also available on the grounds.
Accessible Toilets
Good
The Changing Places toilet can be found on the ground floor, close to the picnic area. The door opens outward and does not require a RADAR key. It can be opened from the outside by using the touch pad and locked or unlocked from the inside by pressing a button on the wall. The toilet features many essentials, including an adjustable change bed, a large height-adjustable sink with a lever-style tap and a ceiling track hoist. The toilet has grab rails on either side, a colostomy shelf, and space for a left-side transfer. The flush is on the right when seated, and the emergency cord, which hung to the floor, is on the left. The toilet seat, toilet lid and grabrails contrast with the rest of the toilet. There's also a shower at the head of the change bed for those who may need it. As expected, the toilet is large enough to accommodate several carers as needed. Two privacy screens are provided. Additional accessible toilets can be found throughout the museum. I found them to be spacious and easily able to accommodate additional people
