People with severe disabilities can now utilise new assisted-access toilet and changing facilities when visiting West Midland shopping destination intu Merry Hill.

The facility supports customers with profound and multiple disabilities, and will also cater for people with other physical and non-visual disabilities who require extra equipment and space in a safe and comfortable environment.

It differs to intu Merry Hill’s standard and accessible toilets with features that include an adult-sized changing bench and enough room for a disabled person and up to two carers. There is also a height adjustable sink and a hoist to help users out of their wheelchairs.

The Changing Places facility was officially opened this week by Neil Davies, chairman at Dudley Voices for Choice, alongside member Sharon Davies, and project worker Claire Allen. Dudley Voices for Choice is a user-led charitable organisation, based in Dudley, that supports people with learning disabilities and autism. Neil Davies, chairman of Dudley Voices for Choice, said:

“The new Changing Places in intu Merry Hill is a welcome addition to the centre, and now people with disabilities can come along and spend the day here knowing that all of their needs can be met in one place."

Naomi Campbell, community development manager at intu Merry Hill, added: “We want to ensure that we make intu Merry Hill as accessible and inclusive as we can. This important new space will ensure that customers who need access to a Changing Places facility can enjoy a safe and comfortable shopping experience whilst visiting intu Merry Hill.

"It’s one of several measures which we are introducing, including training our staff, to provide welcoming experiences for all."

The Changing Places facility at intu Merry Hill is located on the Upper Mall near Debenhams/Eat Central. It is accessible during centre trading hours via RADAR key.