Labour MSP Mary Fee has called for investment in better facilities for disabled people and reaffirmed her support for more “Changing Places” toilets in public spaces and on Scotland’s road network.

The West Scotland politician made the comments during a Scottish Government debate on progressing towards a fairer Scotland for disabled people.

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Changing Places toilets provide a height adjustable adult-sized changing bench and a tracking hoist system, or mobile hoist if this is not possible.

They also provide a safe and clean environment and enough space in the changing area for the disabled person and up to two carers, a centrally placed toilet with room on either side and a screen or curtain to allow some privacy.

During the debate, however, Ms Fee told the chamber that members “might be surprised to realise that, on Scotland’s road network, there are only two changing places toilets”.

She says traditional disabled toilets are not adequate for the estimated 20,000 people with severe and complex needs, as they cannot transfer themselves from a wheelchair to a toilet.

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Ms Fee said: “It was important to raise the issue of toilet facilities for disabled people with complex and severe needs during the debate. I have heard from many disabled people, families and carers that access to adequate toilet facilities can limit the freedom to travel.

"This forces many to stay in their homes and only travel locally.

“There was shock on many MSPs faces when I told them that there are 77,000 different germs and viruses on a standard toilet floor and it was clear that none of them would be happy to lay on that floor as many disabled people are forced to.

“Scotland has many great supports in place for disabled people, however we could go further and invest in better facilities.”