Redefining Accessibility at Sherwood Observatory

Challenge

Sherwood Observatory wanted to make their new planetarium and science discovery centre fully accessible to all visitors, regardless of their needs. Standard accessible toilets were not sufficient for people with complex and multiple disabilities, often forcing families to cut visits short or avoid them altogether. Changing Places toilets are essential for people with profound and multiple disabilities. They provide space, dignity, and safety, elements that standard accessible toilets often lack. Without these facilities, many families are often forced to cut visits short or avoid them altogether. For Sherwood Observatory, this wasn’t acceptable. They wanted to ensure their centre could welcome everyone. The goal was to create an inclusive experience where no one was excluded.

Strategy

The team at Sherwood Observatory began researching options early in the project. To achieve full inclusion, Sherwood Observatory decided early in the project to integrate a fully equipped Changing Places toilet facility. They sought a partner who could handle everything from design and equipment to installation and expert advice. Multicare Medical were brought in to lead the specification and installation, ensuring the facility met the highest standards of Changing Places compliance, safety, and usability.

Solution

The room was fully equipped with high-quality specialist equipment and ancillary items, and registered as a Changing Places facility on the official map. Installed equipment includes a Ropox adult-size changing bench, H-frame ceiling hoist, Ropox height-adjustable wash basin, DocM toilet, privacy screen, and a full range of ancillary items. Every feature was chosen to ensure safety, dignity, and ease of use for both users and carers.

”We’re really pleased with the new accessible facility and the result speaks for itself ” – says Tony Booth, Centre Manager

Result

Sherwood Observatory now has a modern, fully accessible toilet and changing facility, enabling all visitors to enjoy the full experience. For Sherwood Observatory, this new facility is more than just a toilet, it’s a vital part of their commitment to inclusion. Families who may have once been excluded from visiting, now feel welcome, supported, and able to fully enjoy the Observatory’s new planetarium and science centre.

”Visitors describe the Changing Places room as the best they’ve ever used. A clear testament to the quality of design and installation.” – says Tony Booth, Centre Manager

About the venue

Sherwood Observatory, located near Sutton-in-Ashfield Nottinghamshire, is a registered charity with a goal of promoting, and advancing the interest and education of the public in STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics).