As part of our ongoing commitment to equality, dignity, and inclusion, we are proud to celebrate Changing Places Awareness Day which takes place on Saturday.
Launched in 2022, our Changing Places toilet was the first of its kind in an acute Trust in Kent and Medway. Located in the Atrium, Level 2, Green Zone (accessible with a radar key), it provides a safe, hygienic, and fully equipped space for patients, visitors, and staff with significant learning and physical disabilities, helping them use bathroom facilities with confidence and dignity.
Changing Places toilets are much more than accessible toilets – they are life-changing spaces. Without them, people and their carers often face difficult, undignified, or unsafe situations. Our facility includes an adult-sized changing bench, hoist, height-adjustable toilet and sink, and plenty of space for carers to assist comfortably.

A parent who recently used our facilities said, “When we attended an outpatient appointment with our daughter, we used the Changing Places facility to change our daughters pad to ensure she was comfortable. Changing Places facilities are so important for people with disabilities and complex needs to ensure they can access the community. Standard disabled toilets are simply not accessible enough for many people today.”
Our Changing Places toilet also importantly has a stoma shelf for anyone who needs a clean and safe space to change their stoma bag.
Lead Stoma Care Nurse Specialist, Fiona Anscomb, said: “Having a stoma shelf is incredibly helpful for patients when changing their stoma pouch. It provides a clean, stable surface to hold supplies, reducing the risk of spills or contamination. This simple addition can make the process more comfortable and manageable, especially for those with limited mobility or dexterity. A stoma shelf promotes independence and confidence, making daily care easier and less stressful.”
Over a quarter of a million people in the UK rely on Changing Places toilets so they can get out and about and enjoy everyday activities that many of us take for granted.
You can help us raise awareness of this facility at Medway, by spreading the word and with your friends, family, and anyone you know who may need it.
Read our hospital magazine!

Join us in making a difference
