Rosie cuts ribbon as new toilet for disabled visitors opens at RD&E

A new Changing Places toilet facility has officially opened at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital (RD&E), following concerns raised by patients about a lack of accessible spaces.

The facility, located at the main entrance of the RD&E (Wonford), was opened by Rosie and her mum Ruth, whose story about the challenges faced by disabled visitors was previously shared with the Trust’s Board of Directors.

The new unit includes an adult-sized changing bench, ceiling hoist, accessible shower and toilet, and a photographic mural chosen by Rosie and her classmates. A plaque on the wall thanks Rosie and Ruth for their contribution.

Ruth said: “A Changing Places toilet is long-overdue at the RD&E. It makes perfect sense to have one in a hospital with so many people attending who might need this facility. Rosie and her friends have been so happy to be part of the project. Thanks to the hospital for listening to us.”

Andrea Bell, Deputy Director of Nursing for Patient Experience at the Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, said: “It is really fantastic for us to be able to officially launch our Changing Places facility at the RD&E after 12 months of planning and development. I am so grateful to our service users for their help in campaigning for this facility and their support in the design and final space.”

Alongside the new Changing Places toilet, the Trust has also added an accessible toilet and a dedicated breastfeeding facility as part of its Patient Experience Strategy. The RD&E site now joins North Devon District Hospital in offering these improved accessible services.