Thousands of people with complex needs across Scotland cannot attend events or visit outdoor venues due to the lack of appropriate toilets. While locations sometimes offer ‘accessible toilets’, these are not always suitable for people who need specialised equipment and additional space. A Changing Places toilet has room for two carers and a wheelchair, a hoist and tracking system and an adult changing bench.

Often families have to change loved ones on the floor of a public toilet, stay close to home or make the decision not to attend events where no facilities are present.

With the purchase of the Pamiloo, PAMIS are now opening up events across the country to families and supporting them to access the same days out that everyone else enjoys.

Laura Rutherford explains the issues that her family has had getting out and about:

"My son Brody is 5 years old and a happy-go-lucky, beautiful boy. He has Global Development Delay, Epilepsy, Autism, Hypotonia and Hypermobility Syndrome. He cannot talk at all, but uses a little bit of makaton. Fortunately, Brody can walk, although he has a wheelchair for some outings as his legs tire easily and he frequently falls over.

Having the Pamiloo in Scotland will make a huge difference to so many lives, ours included. There are numerous outdoors events like A Day Out With Thomas, The Enchanted Forrest and Firework displays, which we really have to consider attending because of inaccessible toilet and changing facilities. The pamiloo will mean no changing Brody in the boot of our car or simply not being able to go to big events. It would mean we feel welcome and included.  

Brody deserves the same opportunities to attend events in Scotland as everyone else. He is different, not less".

PAMIS are still fundraising to pay for the costs associated with running this vehicle including purchase cost, insurance, fuel, volunteer expenses, consumables and maintenance. We would very much appreciate any support.