A Visit with Leo – Putting the Facility to the Test
We recently visited the site alongside Leo from Cool Access Consultancy and his carer, Easter, to experience the Changing Places facility first-hand.
These visits are invaluable. It’s one thing installing a facility — it’s another seeing how it actually works for someone who relies on it.
From arrival, accessibility is clear. The signage for the Changing Places room is large, visible and easy to find, removing the stress of having to ask staff or search the building.
Inside, the space delivers exactly what a Changing Places facility should — room to manoeuvre, well-laid-out equipment, and a clear focus on dignity and ease of use.
What’s Inside: Our Specification
Within the Changing Places room at Odeon Luxe, Cabot Circus, we installed:
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Astor OT200 Ceiling Track Hoist for smooth, safe transfers
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Astor CTE3 Height Adjustable Changing Table for comfort and ease of use
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Kwickscreen Privacy Screen for dignity and privacy
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Astor ABW-CP Wash Basin designed for both users and carers
The space also features a full room coverage alarm system, grab rails, a wide access door and clear signage — creating a facility that is safe, practical and easy to use.
Why This Matters in a Cinema Setting
Cinemas are social spaces — places people go with friends, family or carers to relax and enjoy time together.
Without a Changing Places facility, that experience simply isn’t possible for many people with complex needs.
At Odeon Luxe Cabot Circus, accessibility hasn’t been treated as an add-on. It’s been properly considered as part of the overall design — meaning more people can enjoy a night out at the cinema without barriers.
Accessibility Beyond the Cinema
After visiting the cinema, we headed into Cabot Circus itself — and it’s clear that accessibility has been considered across the wider destination.
The shopping centre also includes a Changing Places facility (separate to the Odeon installation), giving visitors additional reassurance when planning a longer trip.
Cabot Circus offers:
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Step-free access throughout
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Lifts to all levels
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Accessible toilets and facilities
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A wide range of restaurants and shops
(And yes — we tested a well-earned Nando’s afterwards.)
This wider accessibility is important. It means a visit isn’t limited to just one activity — it supports a full day out.
Building More Inclusive Destinations
Projects like Odeon Luxe Cabot Circus highlight what good accessibility looks like in practice.
It’s not just about meeting requirements — it’s about creating spaces that people can actually use, comfortably and with dignity.
And when venues, shopping centres and public destinations take this approach, it opens up experiences that many people have previously been excluded from.
Get In Touch
If you’re planning a similar project and want to ensure accessibility is considered from the outset, our team can help.
From specification through to installation, we support architects, developers and operators in delivering fully compliant, practical Changing Places facilities.
