LOCAL organisations, businesses and community ventures are being urged to apply for Warwickshire County Council funding to improve facilities for disabled people and the wider community.

Applicants are invited to bid for funding to develop sensory areas and fully accessible Changing Places toilet facilities which can significantly improve the quality of life of disabled people and their carers when they are out and about in their local communities or visiting other areas of the county.

Leisure centres, visitor centres, supermarkets and tourist attractions are just some of the ventures who are invited to submit a bid for the capital funding.

Councillor Jose Compton, portfolio holder for adult social care said: “ The provision of fully accessible Changing Places toilet facilities and sensory areas can really make a difference to the lives of disabled people and their carers as they are able to stay out for longer in their community and enjoy the activities and opportunities on offer.

“Many disabled people are unable to travel more than a short distance from their home due to the lack of accessible facilities, however those businesses that look to invest in this type of facility are likely to attract additional customers or visitors to their local area.

“The county council hopes to attract funding bids from across the county and the intention is to develop at least one Changing Places toilet facility and one sensory area in each of Warwickshire’s five district and boroughs.”

A Changing Places facility provides enough space for disabled people and their carers, together with the right equipment, including a height adjustable changing bench and a hoist.

A sensory area is a dedicated room or space which helps to create a safe calm and relaxing area. It utilises multi-sensory equipment to stimulate the senses and helps to relieve stress, anxiety and pain, promoting feelings of well-being.

Interested organisations should visit warwickshire.gov.uk/procurement for details of how to submit their funding bid.

The deadline for bids is 10am on Tuesday, May 27.