A NEW Changing Places Toilet at Macrobert Arts Centre was officially opened at a ribbon cutting event as part of Spend a Penny for PAMIS week.

This facility, which is now available for public use, is specifically designed for people with profound and multiple learning difficulties.

It will allow even more people to get involved in the opportunities on offer at the arts venue, and take up the opportunity to study at the University of Stirling, and was unveiled on Tuesday, November 21.

For the event, the Macrobert was joined by Laura Rutherford, who originally lobbied for this new facility, and her son Brody, along with Carolynne Hunter and her daughter Freya.

Elizabeth Fuller, venue manager, Macrobert Arts Centre, said: "This is an exciting step in our mission to open up the opportunities and experiences we offer to as many people as possible and we really appreciate the support given by the University of Stirling that has made the installation possible.

"Laura Rutherford got in touch last year asking us to get involved in the nationwide CPT campaign and ensure she could continue to bring her son Brody to Macrobert.

"As our Christmas season kicks off this week with the opening of our annual panto, coinciding with Spend a Penny for PAMIS week, the timing couldn’t be better."

Laura said: "I met with Elizabeth from the Macrobert Arts Centre in January to tell her about the Changing Places campaign and what these facilities mean to my family.

"She instantly understood the difference Changing Places toilets make for families like mine. They mean that we feel welcome and included.

"They are the difference between people being stuck at home or having the confidence to go out safe in the knowledge that they won't have to leave early or change their loved one on a public toilet floor or car boot.

"I'm so grateful to the Macrobert for listening and promoting access for all. Thanks so much."

The installation is part of the Stirling centre’s ongoing commitment to champion equalities, diversity and inclusion and remove access barriers to the arts.

The absence of suitable toilets mean that people with complex disabilities who need assistance find it difficult to take part in activities such as going to the cinema, visiting the theatre, shopping or going out for a meal.