Accessible scales to help disabled residents monitor their health

Hampshire County Council has approved grant funding for new wheelchair-accessible weighing equipment in Changing Places toilets, which are larger than standard accessible toilets and designed for people with complex disabilities who may need more space, specialist equipment or support.  

It will give more residents the option to check their weight, supporting routine health monitoring and conversations about healthy weight, nutrition and wellbeing. 

Councillor Joanne Burton, Executive Member for Health and Wellbeing at Hampshire County Council, said: “Everyone should be able to understand and manage their health, but standard weighing equipment is not accessible to everyone.  

“This funding will tackle a practical but often overlooked barrier. By installing suitable scales in Changing Places facilities, we can make routine weight checks easier, safer and more dignified for disabled residents.  

“Changing Places also help people with complex disabilities, their families and carers to use public places and services with greater confidence.” 

There are 22 Changing Place facilities in locations across Hampshire including town centres, country parks and leisure centres. They include features such as ceiling hoists, adult-sized changing benches, privacy screens and room for carers or family members.  

Eligible Changing Places providers will now be invited to apply for the funding and will be able to choose the equipment that best meets the needs of their facility and its users. This could include wheelchair platform scales, supported standing scales or scales that attach to an existing hoist.  

Participating organisations will be responsible for risk assessments, installation, safe use and ongoing maintenance.