Funding Opportunities for Changing Places Toilets in Scotland

Ensuring accessibility in public spaces is not just about compliance; it’s about inclusion, dignity, and equal opportunity. For individuals with complex disabilities, standard accessible toilets are often insufficient. Changing Places toilets in Scotland offer the necessary space and equipment for people who need additional support, and thanks to various funding initiatives, more organisations can now consider installing these vital facilities.

In this post, we explore current funding opportunities for Changing Places toilets in Scotland, breaking down who is eligible, what the funding covers, and how to apply.

What Are Changing Places Toilets?

Changing Places toilets are larger, fully accessible toilet facilities designed to meet the needs of people with profound learning or physical disabilities. Unlike standard accessible toilets, they include a height-adjustable changing bench, a hoist system, and adequate space for carers.

These toilets are essential for ensuring that people with disabilities and their families can access public places comfortably and safely. Their installation significantly improves inclusivity in communities, leisure venues, retail centres, transport hubs, and tourist destinations.

Scottish Government Funding Support

In August 2025, the Changing Places Toilets Scotland Fund (CPTSF) was relaunched to provide targeted support for new installations and major refurbishments of existing facilities. Administered by Inspiring Scotland in partnership with PAMIS, this fund aims to increase the number of fully accessible toilets across Scotland’s communities, public buildings, and tourist destinations.

Who can apply?

Eligible applicants include local authorities, public sector bodies, charities, and community or voluntary organisations that manage publicly accessible venues. Applications are particularly encouraged from projects in rural or remote areas where Changing Places provision is currently limited.

What does it cover?

The fund can contribute towards:

• Construction or refurbishment costs for a compliant Changing Places toilet

• Essential equipment such as hoists, height-adjustable benches, and privacy screens

• Design and accessibility consultation fees

• Ancillary costs to meet BS8300 and Changing Places technical standards

Funding amounts vary depending on project scope, but applicants should demonstrate clear need, long-term sustainability, and public accessibility. Co-funding from other grants or match funding is encouraged to strengthen applications.

Application process

Guidance for the 2025 round (available on Inspiring Scotland’s website) outlines a two-stage application process:

1. Expression of Interest: submit basic project details, location, and community impact.

2. Full Application: provide architectural plans, budget breakdown, and evidence of community engagement.

The fund has a set application deadline, and decisions are made following an assessment by accessibility experts and government representatives. Early preparation is advised, as demand is expected to be high.

You can find the official guidance and application details via:

• PAMIS: https://pamis.org.uk/news/news/changing-places-toilets-scotland-fund/

• Inspiring Scotland Guidance: PDF Download

UK-Wide Funding Initiatives

Although some schemes originate from UK-wide initiatives, they are often open to Scottish applicants. For example:

1. Changing Places Fund (UK Government)

While primarily aimed at England, some cross-border organisations or UK charities operating in Scotland may be eligible. This fund provides financial support to install new facilities in existing buildings or public spaces.

2. National Lottery Community Fund

This fund supports projects that bring people together and improve community wellbeing. Applications that include Changing Places toilets in Scotland as part of a larger accessibility project have a strong chance of success if they demonstrate community benefit.

3. The Robertson Trust

The Robertson Trust offers grants to charities and community groups working to reduce poverty and trauma. Organisations in Scotland that install accessible facilities such as Changing Places toilets may qualify, especially if serving disadvantaged or remote communities.

4. The Clothworkers’ Foundation

This UK-wide charity supports capital projects, including accessible facilities. It often funds equipment such as hoists and adult-sized changing benches, critical elements of a Changing Places toilet.

Local Authority and Community-Based Grants

Many Scottish local councils offer their own grant schemes for community improvements, regeneration, or tourism enhancement. These can include provisions for enhancing accessibility. For instance:

• Highland Council’s Community Regeneration Fund
• Fife Council’s Community Investment Fund
• Aberdeen City Council’s Accessible Infrastructure Grants

These may not specifically mention Changing Places toilets, but proposals with a strong accessibility or inclusion component may meet the criteria.

Charitable and Corporate Grants

Some private foundations and businesses offer grants or partnerships to improve public infrastructure. Look into organisations such as:

• SP Energy Networks Green Economy Fund
• ScottishPower Foundation
• Calor Rural Community Fund

These schemes often support rural communities or projects promoting sustainability and accessibility, making them viable funding routes for installing Changing Places toilets in Scotland.

How to Get Started

1. Assess Community Need: Gather data and testimonials to demonstrate the demand for a Changing Places facility in your area.
2. Engage Stakeholders: Partner with disability advocacy groups or local health authorities to strengthen your case.
3. Develop a Budget: Include costs for equipment, installation, and long-term maintenance. Changing Place suppliers, like Innova, can help with this.
4. Apply for Funding: Tailor each application to meet the criteria of the fund. Emphasise the social impact and inclusivity of your project.

Conclusion

Expanding the network of Changing Places toilets in Scotland is critical to building a truly inclusive society. With a variety of funding routes available (from government schemes to charitable grants) organisations have a real opportunity to take action.

The newly relaunched Changing Places Toilets Scotland Fund (CPTSF) 2025 offers one of the most significant and timely opportunities to secure financial support for installing or upgrading these facilities. Whether you run a community centre, visitor attraction, transport hub, or public building, now is the moment to explore your options, prepare your application, and take advantage of this funding window before the deadline.

FAQs

1. What is a Changing Places toilet?

A Changing Places toilet is a fully accessible facility with equipment like a hoist, adult changing bench, and enough space for a disabled person and their carer.

2. Who can apply for funding for Changing Places toilets in Scotland?

Local authorities, charities, public venues, and community organisations are all potential applicants depending on the fund’s criteria.

3. How much does it cost to install a Changing Places toilet?

Costs typically range between £30,000 and £60,000, depending on location, building structure, and equipment needs.

4. Are there specific grants just for Scotland?

Yes. The Scottish Government’s initial £10 million fund and several local authority grants are specific to Scotland.

5. Can Changing Places toilets be installed in older buildings?

Yes, though it may require structural adjustments. Some funding schemes cover refurbishment or conversion costs to accommodate the facility.