135 miles for Changing Places!

This week we heard from Anne Wilson, a campaigner who has successfully completed a staggering 135 mile walk to London to deliver a letter to the Prime Minister to raise awareness of the need for more Changing Places toilets.

Anne’s route took her from West Lavington, up around the edge of Salisbury Plain training area then down to Pewsey Wharf. From Pewsey Wharf, she walked along the Avon and Kennet Canal to Reading and then followed the Thames Pathway to Westminster. She had different walking partners each day who helped her to keep a good pace, despite the blistering heat. Anne’s husband Dave joined her for the last part of the walk over Westminster Bridge and onto Downing Street.

So why did Anne take on this challenge?

Anne’s husband, Dave, was diagnosed with motor neurone disease over 10 years ago. Although he has very limited mobility, they still try to get out and about as much as they can. However, a factor that limits what they can do is the lack toilets with hoists and sufficient space for a wheelchair and carers. That’s why Anne wants to see more Changing Places toilets installed.

Anne’s walk raised over £5,000 for Dorothy House Hospice and the Motor Neuron Disease Association (MNDA). She also used it as an opportunity to raise vital awareness about the need for Changing Places.

We would like to say thank you to Anne and everyone else who took part and donated; what an incredible achievement!

Want to connect?

Anne would love to meet other Changing Places campaigners in the Wiltshire area. If you would like to be put in touch then please email changingplaces@mencap.org.uk