Sarah Supports Brent Mencap Campaign

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Sat 1st Aug 2009

Local MP Sarah is supporting Brent Mencap's campaign

Liberal Democrat MP for Brent East Sarah Teather has expressed support for a recent campaign, led by the disability charity Mencap, for more public toilets suitable for those with profound disabilities.

Standard disabled toilets do not contain height adjustable changing benches, hoists or the necessary space. With so few available in public places, people are forced to choose between changing their family members on dirty floors or staying inside.

Sarah has joined Mencap to press the authorities into building Changing Places toilets in venues such as hospitals, shopping centres and large train stations.

Local Liberal Democrat MP for Brent East Sarah Teather said:

"I was appalled when I first learnt what many disabled people are put through when they try to go outdoors. It is wrong that so many people are forced to either change their family members on dirty floors or stay at home. The lack of suitable toilets in public places is a horrifying oversight and must be changed immediately.

"Up to 230,000 people require the use of a Changing Places toilet, but there were only 78 in the UK at the last count. This is unacceptable."

Sarah has already written to Wembley Stadium, Brent Council, and the Government to encourage them to back the campaign for Changing Places toilets. Progress is already being made, with the Department of Communities and Local Government agreeing to a full public consultation on the proposals.

Related Links:

Brent Mencap.

Mencap Changing Places Campaign.