Accessibility is a basic right, and for individuals with complex disabilities and their carers, Changing Places toilets provide essential space and equipment to ensure dignity and inclusion. Recognising this urgent need, the Scottish Government has launched the Changing Places Toilets Scotland Fund, investing £10 million across 2025-26 and 2026-27 to boost the number of fully accessible facilities in public buildings and community venues.
What the Fund Offers and Who Can Apply
The fund, managed by Inspiring Scotland in partnership with PAMIS, covers both new installations and major refurbishments of Changing Places toilets. Eligible applicants include local authorities, charities, community and voluntary organisations, and businesses operating public-facing venues – even those in rural or remote areas where provision is limited.
Organisations must meet three main requirements to be eligible:
1. Organisation Type
You must be either:
- A not-for-profit, incorporated organisation: e.g. a registered charity that is a Company Limited by Guarantee, a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation (SCIO), a Community Interest Company, or a Community Benefit Society.
- A micro or small business with up to 49 employees, which can show that:
- It is the most suitable and viable option for housing the Changing Places Toilet.
- The facility’s main purpose is not to generate income for the business.
- Use of the facility will be free; no payment, purchase, or obligation for the user.
- It has the support of the local community.
Charitable organisations managing premises leased from a statutory body (e.g. council) can still apply.
2. Organisation Location
You must be:
- Based in Scotland, or
- Based elsewhere in the UK but delivering a significant level of services in Scotland. (The Changing Places Toilet must be physically located in Scotland.)
3. Property Ownership
To ensure long-term availability, you must either:
- Own the premises where the toilet will be installed, or
- Have an existing lease with at least five years remaining, plus written landlord consent for installation.
If premises are shared by multiple organisations, the fund will consider the overall usage of the building and whether the applicant is the most appropriate host.
Ineligible applicants include:
- Public sector organisations (e.g. hospitals, GP surgeries, council buildings)
- Profit-making businesses with over 49 employees or large national organisations
- Unincorporated associations
- Sole traders or business partnerships
- Organisations applying on behalf of another entity
Expert Support
Various organisations can provide information on the funding and how to apply, but a couple can go a step further to offer free expert advice and support. PAMIS and Innova can assist with planning, design, equipment standards, funding navigation, and the maintenance of published Changing Places facilities. Whilst PAMIS co-founded and Chair the UK Changing Places Toilet Consortium, Innova has been fitting out facilities with Changing Places for over a decade and is the most experienced supplier in the UK.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step
- Access the Guidance Pack & Application Form
The fund officially opened for applications on 7 August 2025. You can download the detailed Fund Guidance Pack and Application Form via Inspiring Scotland’s website. - Stage 1: Expression of Interest (EOI)
Submit a concise proposal including location, need, and community impact. - Stage 2: Full Application
If invited, submit architectural plans, a detailed budget, evidence of stakeholder engagement, and long-term sustainability plans. - Leverage Expert Advice
Contact experts like PAMIS for tailored guidance on design standards (BS 8300 and Changing Places technical), planning pitfalls, funding strategy, and best practices. - Partner with a Specialist Supplier
Collaborate with Innova Care Concepts to streamline the process, from design and equipment sourcing to installation and compliance, ensuring the facility meets all technical and user needs reliably. - Submit Your Application
Be mindful of deadlines and ensure your application is thorough and compelling. Demand is expected to be high, so early readiness is key.
Why This Fund Matters
Without Changing Places toilets, families with complex needs often face exclusion or safety risks when accessing public spaces. The fund provides a timely opportunity to address these gaps and ensure dignity for thousands in Scotland. By working with PAMIS and Innova, businesses can deliver high-quality facilities that stand the test of time.
FAQs
1. What is the Changing Places Toilets Scotland Fund?
A £10 million fund over two financial years (2025-26 and 2026-27) to support the installation and refurbishment of Changing Places toilets, managed by Inspiring Scotland.
2. Who is eligible to apply?
Public-facing businesses, charities, community organisations, and local authorities – especially in areas with limited facilities.
3. What support does Innova offer?
Free expert support for planning, design standards, cutting-edge equipment, training, and maintenance of registered facilities.
4. How do I apply?
Apply in two stages: first, Expression of Interest; then full proposal if shortlisted. Guidance and forms are available from 7 August 2025 via Inspiring Scotland.
5. Can Innova help me with my application?
We provide turnkey solutions for design, equipment supply, installation, and compliance, ensuring your project aligns with both the fund’s requirements and technical specifications.
