Glastonbury residents and visitors with disabilities can now enjoy a stress-free visit to the famous town, thanks to a new Changing Places toilet pod installed in St John’s Car Park.

Last year Mendip District Council was successful in applying for government funding of £88,500 to use for Changing Places facilities within the area. Part of that funding has been used for the pod in Glastonbury.

The local Glastonbury and District Mencap Society has also generously contributed funds towards the facility, with an expectation that further charitable funds will help deliver additional Changing Places toilets in the area.

Changing Places facilities allow people with limited mobility to use toilets with dignity and greater safety.

The pod in Glastonbury was installed by contractors, RISE Adaptations, and contains specialist equipment such as a ceiling hoist system, adjustable changing bench and a privacy screen. One wall features a beautiful image by local photographer Mike Jefferies, a view of the Avalon Marshes with Glastonbury Tor in the background.

There are five Changing Places amenities in the area, including at Wells Town Hall, Shepton Mallet Tesco, Bath & West Showground, Cattle Market Car Park in Frome and now in St John’s Car Park, Glastonbury.

Cllr Liz Leyshon, Lead Member for Resources & Performance, said:

“I’m really pleased that another Changing Place has opened in Somerset.

“This type of facility is so desperately needed, especially in rural areas, and now that there are five of these specialist Changing Places in the northeast Somerset Council area, people with disabilities, their families and carers can visit our county knowing there are amenities available which they can safely and comfortably use.”

Steve Jones, Chair of the Glastonbury and District Mencap Society, said:

“This Changing Place will allow a wide range of people and their families to get out and about in Glastonbury without worrying about having a place to get changed.

“Our thanks to the Council for making this happen, and we’re very glad to have played a part.”

In addition to the pod in Glastonbury, there are proposals for further Changing Places facilities to be installed at Tor Leisure, St Dunstan’s House and in Clarks Village.

Learn about Changing Places here: www.changing-places.org.