INVERCLYDE'S MSP says a new Scottish Government scheme could go a long way to helping local families access appropriate toilet facilities when out and about in Inverclyde.

Stuart McMillan says he has received confirmation from the Scottish Government that the Changing Places Toilet Fund will be launched next year, after constituents highlighted the poor provision of facilities locally.

The local SNP MSP and his colleague, Councillor James Daisley, met local parents of children with disabilities and additional support needs during the summer.

They explained that the only Changing Places toilet in Inverclyde is based within Port Glasgow Tesco.

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This means families who rely upon these facilities regularly travel outside of Inverclyde to visit attractions that have Changing Places toilets, such as the Glasgow Science Centre.

Mr McMillan subsequently wrote to the public health minister, Jenni Minto MSP, to highlight the need for greater provision of changing places facilities and enquired about the proposed Changing Places Toilet Fund.

Stuart McMillan says the announcement of the fund is welcome news. (Image: Newsquest)

Ms Minto now says Scottish Government “will look to make the fund available across the next two financial years, with the initial tranche of funding planned for release in early 2025".

Mr McMillan said: “I am pleased that the Scottish Government is looking to launch the Changing Places Toilet Fund next year, as this funding should ensure that there is greater provision of changing places toilets across Scotland.

“This investment would go a long way to helping Inverclyde Council introduce changing places toilets in key locations so that local and visiting families can enjoy what our area has to offer.

“It’s disappointing to hear that at present, local people who require access to a Changing Places toilet cannot enjoy a day out in Inverclyde.

"That means money lost to our local economy or, for those who can’t travel further afield, that they may struggle to leave the house.

“Myself, Cllr Daisley and the SNP council group are committed to working with council officers in advance of this funding being announced to identify potential locations for a Changing Places toilet.”

Councillor Daisley added: “The availability of Changing Places toilets might be something that affects a small minority, but it has a significant effect on those individuals and their families.

(Image: George Munro)

“This investment would help improve people’s quality of life, especially that of local disabled children by enabling them and their families to spend more time in their community.

“Stuart and I are keen to hear from local people about where they think the best locations would be.

"Having spoken with a few families already, Lunderston Bay seems like a fantastic option, especially after the recent accessibility upgrades to the play park.

“Regardless, the SNP council group are prepared to work with council officers to ensure we can submit a high-quality bid for funding to improve the provision of Changing Places facilities locally.”