Arsenal install Changing Places toilet at Emirates Stadium

Arsenal Football Club has announced the installation of an accessible Changing Places toilet at its Emirates Stadium, becoming the first Premier League Club to do so. 

Far larger than a standard disabled toilet, Changing Places toilets include a height adjustable bench, a hoist and enough room for a wheelchair and up to two carers; these facilities are ideal for people who depend on mobility aids in the home, such as a rise and recliner chair.

The facility was opened by Leroy Binns, an Arsenal fan and a Mencap Campaigns Assistant who has a learning disability. Alongside Leroy at the unveiling was Alex Brooker, a journalist and presenter who is best known for his coverage of the 2012 Summer Paralympic Games.

Leroy Binns explained how he has been campaigning for a Premier League club to install a Changing Places toilet for many years. With the majority of clubs not offering suitable toilets for people with mobility troubles, it means that many fans were unable to watch their favourite team play.

600^th Changing Places Toilet installed

The new toilet at the Emirates Stadium is also the 600^th fully-installed Changing Places toilet, a milestone for the facility which allows those with mobility issues the same freedom as others. These conveniences have also been installed in shopping centres, hospitals and museums, as well as other public places including the Olympic Park and the O2 Arena.

With Arsenal becoming the first Premier League football club to install the Changing Places toilet, it is hoped that many of the other clubs can follow suit and provide better facilities for the thousands of people who attend Premier League fixtures every week.

It’s another great example of how more is being done to help those with mobility problems, helping those reliant on a customised stairlift or other aid in the home to enjoy a better quality of life.

Image Credit: PSGMAG.NET (Flickr.com)

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