The construction of a 24/7 accessible Changing Places bathroom is well underway at The Rex on Magnolia Road, Tanunda thanks to $100,000 in grant funding from the South Australia Department of Human Services, supported by $150,000 from Council.
The facility, in line with national Changing Places design specifications, has been especially designed to provide a suitable space for people who cannot use standard accessible toilets and will become one of 172 Changing Places facilities across the country, widening the boundaries experienced by people with severe physical disability through providing greater social inclusion and choice of places to go.
Maria Brett, mother of 20-year-old Gemma Brett who lives with complex physical disabilities, is excited about the flexibility the facility will provide to Gemma and others within the community.
Not only will it assist Gemma, and many other locals towards greater social inclusion, but also will be welcome by tourists who may require the facilities. Gemma’s participation in activities in the Barossa will no longer be limited to a timeframe, and will be more dignified and comfortable
The life-changing space includes an adult sized change table, ceiling hoist, peninsula toilet, privacy screen and additional circulation space to best meet the needs of people living with complex disabilities and their carers.
“It is a priority of Council to ensure our community has access to the resources they need to participate fully with dignity. We are pleased to be able to facilitate the Changing Places project for both locals and visitors alike,” said Mayor Bim Lange.
Local construction company BGi Building Group were awarded the tender to construct the facility which is expected to be complete by end of June.
