The IW Wight Access Group (WAG) has lent it's voice to Mencap's Nationwide campaign for the provision of Changing Places facilities - toilet facilities for people with severe disabilities.
WAG joint chair, Alan Davies (pictured), said "Changing Places facilities would include a hoist, a height-adjustable bench and plenty of space. Standard accessible toilets do not meet the needs of a lot of wheelchair users, especially those who need a high level of assitance with their personal care".
WAG has already gained support in it's local campaign from parish/town councils, county councillors, schools, support groups (such as Sound Advice) and members of the public. However more support is needed.
Without these facilities families have to change the person they care for on a dirty toilet floor, limit outings to a few hours a day or NOT go out at all !!
Anyone can show their support for the Group's campaign, by adding their names to its petitition. This can be done by 1) calling in to Help & Care, 30 Quay Street, Newport, 2) by joining and downloading the petition from
http://uk.groups.yahoo.com/group/the_Wight_Access_Group/files/ click file CP&WAG.rtf
or 3) contacting Alan by e-mail alwidav@sky.com and requesting a petition.