Changing Benches

An adult-sized changing bench is an essential part of a Changing Places toilet.

A changing bench provides a comfortable, stable platform to get changed on for people who use incontinence pads or who need help undressing to use the toilet. They can also be used for showering.

Height adjustable models enable the bench level to be lowered to a suitable height for self-transfer from a wheelchair or assisted transfer using a hoist, and then raised to a working height for one or more assistants.

As there are various types of changing bench available, here is some information to help you decide what is most appropriate for your space.

Types of changing bench

Height adjustable changing benches, either:

wall mounted; or
free standing – manually or electrically operated

Fixed height changing bench (not recommended by the Changing Places Consortium)

All height adjustable changing benches should be able to be adjusted to an appropriate safe working height for carers. This will mean that carers can work at an appropriate height and should reduce the strain on their backs.

It also means that carers will not have to use the toilet floor for changing.

Height adjustable changing benches come in a variety of types, sizes and shapes. They should always be chosen with good advice to meet your specific needs.

It also means that carers will not have to use the toilet floor for changing.

Height adjustable changing benches come in a variety of types, sizes and shapes. They should always be chosen with good advice to meet your specific needs.

Wall mounted height adjustable changing benches:

Pros

Provides a stable, flat surface to change pads / readjust clothing
Can be folded against wall to make best use of small space
Can be raised to appropriate working height for carers
Can be lowered to assist with wheelchair self transfers
Provides side safety rail
Does not involve manual effort to adjust height
Smooth action during height adjustment
Easy to readjust height during use
When positioned against a wall, they may offer added safety to prevent disabled person rolling away from carer onto floor
Available in different lengths and can be made to measure

Cons

Carers can only stand on one side
Requires power (electricity) to operate
Requires maintenance and servicing
May have weight limits

Free standing height adjustable changing benches:

Pros

Provides a stable, flat surface to change pads / readjust clothing
Can be raised to appropriate working height for carers
Can be lowered to assist with wheelchair self transfers
Carers can stand on either or both sides
On castors – can be moved to suit needs
Does not require power to operate
May provide side safety rails

Cons

It can be removed easily, leaving no bench facilities
Can take up more space than wall mounted versions
Manually operated versions
height adjustment requires effort, usually foot pump action
sometimes experience jerky movement while raising height
Electrically operated versions have a smoother lift action
Requires maintenance and servicing
Versions that do not provide side rails increase risk of disabled person falling while carer uses sink facilities, etc

Fixed height changing benches (not recommended by the Changing Places Consortium):

Pros

Provides a stable flat surface to change pads / readjust clothing

Cons

Height is fixed and cannot be readjusted
Will not be at a suitable height for the majority of carers to use
May not be used by carers, giving the impression that the facility is not required
May not meet risk assessment requirements for paid carers to use

Always get good advice!

Your planned toilet is unique. Good planning and advice will help you:

choose the best equipment
ensure that it meets your individual needs
ensure that what you choose works well in the appropriate layout