A new accessible toilet has opened in Worcester city centre.

The development of the toilet in the Cornmarket advances Worcester City Council's bid to make the city centre more inclusive.

The Changing Places facility was financed by a government grant alongside council funding.

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The facility is marked by a big accessible toilet with features including ceiling track hoists, adult-sized changing benches, and dedicated space for carers.

The toilet is fully peninsular, offering abundant space on either side.

This amenity is the third Changing Places toilet in the city, following on from existing units in the Hive and the University of Worcester's St John’s campus.

Over 250,000 people in the UK, ranging from those with profound and multiple learning disabilities to others with disabilities that limit mobility, struggle to make use of standard accessible toilets.

The Cornmarket car park was chosen due to its central location and nearby disabled parking spaces.

Councillor Robyn Norfolk, the council’s member champion for equality, diversity and inclusion, said: "We are delighted to have this new Changing Places toilet right in the heart of the city centre.

"We know how vital it is for many people with disabilities and their carers to have access to a facility like this and we hope to deliver more inclusive facilities in the coming years as part of our commitment to ensuring Worcester is an accessible city for everyone."

Carer Voice team lead for Worcestershire Association of Carers (WAC), Kate Webb, said: "We are pleased to support the launch of the new Changing Places.

"It is essential for families and carers accessing the community to have the appropriate facilities available to enable them to take care of their loved ones who cannot access a standard accessible toilet in a safe, clean, and accessible environment.

"Changing Places allows families to enjoy time together, because without such specialist facilities, taking trips and spending time together is limited.

"As it becomes increasingly difficult for carers to get a break, this can be a vital lifeline as it is ever more important families and carers are enabled to remain part of their community.”