Littlehampton’s first fully accessible changing facility unveiled

Littlehampton’s first accessible changing room has been officially opened by the mayor.
By Elaine Hammond
Published 31st Mar 2021, 08:49 GMT
Updated 31st Mar 2021, 09:07 GMT
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The team at Creative Heart community hub and arts cafe was delighted to be able to unveil the new facility, which includes a ceiling hoist and shower.

Claire Jones and Felicity Jay, who run the not-for-profit hub in Beach Road, hope it will put Littlehampton town centre ‘on the map’.

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Claire said: “We’re thrilled to be the first venue in the town centre that has an accessible changing room and we hope it will be a real blessing to a lot of people in our community.

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Littlehampton mayor David Chace officially opens the new accessible changing room at Creative HeartLittlehampton mayor David Chace officially opens the new accessible changing room at Creative Heart
Littlehampton mayor David Chace officially opens the new accessible changing room at Creative Heart

“In the UK, there are over a quarter-of-a-million people who need access to a safe, comfortable toilet with the right equipment. Our new bathroom has a ceiling track hoist, adjustable height changing bed and a shower, plus lots of space for a wheelchair and carers.

“A huge thank you to all our supporters, donors and volunteers who have helped to create this amazing space for Littlehampton.”

Wealden Rehab donated the ceiling hoist and changing bed, Littlehampton Town Council gave money towards the new flooring and fittings, Sussex Community Trust donated towards the underfloor heating and Energy Carbon UK gave a ‘huge discount’ on installing the heating.

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Mayor David Chace, who cut the ribbon on Friday, said Creative Heart was a wonderful community hub.

Littlehampton mayor David Chace was impressed by the paintings Littlehampton mayor David Chace was impressed by the paintings
Littlehampton mayor David Chace was impressed by the paintings

He praised the painting in the new bathroom and added: “Such a transformation in the last year. It’s really fantastic and has a total wow factor.”

The plan is to fully open Creative Heart this summer and the team cannot wait to welcome everyone.

Claire said: “As well as a lovely homemade cafe, we will be running workshops and groups for all ages and abilities, there will be a hair salon, therapy rooms, artist studio space, a multi-sensory room, hot decking office space and there will be rooms for hire.”

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To celebrate Easter, Creative Heart is giving away flower bookmarks as a gift this week. Please feel free to take one from the crochet hooks if you are passing.

Find Creative Heart on Facebook or visit www.creativeheart.org.uk for more information.