CAMPAIGNERS for fully accessible toilets and changing facilities in the town are backing a national awareness day highlighting the cause today.

Andover and District Mencap (ADM) and campaigning mother Amy Attrill are taking part in Changing Places Awareness Day, aiming to spread the message of the vital difference Changing Places toilets can make to those with learning and physical disabilities.

The town currently has one Changing Place toilet open during weekdays until 5pm at ADM's premises, The Wellington Centre, however campaigners are working with Test Valley Borough Council (TVBC) to get facilities open outside these hours.

Amy Attrill, whose son Kane suffers from severe constipation and bowel impaction, said: “Everyone has the right and dignity to go to the toilet.

“I think it is becoming quite known now what Changing Places is, there are lots of people out there that support Changing Places.

“Everyone in Andover who signed the petition has been absolutely fab.”

This is the third annual Changing Places Awareness Day and 12 years since the campaign began.

Supporter Cat Randle added: “Not having a changing places toilet makes them effectively prisoners in their own home.”

ADM chief executive Chris Dixon said the charity is "proud" of its Changing Place facility and is committed to supporting the development of other Changing Places in Andover.

"Changing Places are an important part of the community for those that need them.

"To have a safe, clean and equipped space to undertake one of lives most basic needs gives people dignity," he said.

Campaigners are expecting to meet with TVBC leader Councillor Phil North next week to get an update on movement towards securing extra facilities for the public.

The cause was brought to the authority's attention following Amy Attrill's petition, which gained more than 1,250 signatures from Andover residents backing the move.

Cllr North also announced earlier this year a Changing Place toilet will be installed in the new Andover Leisure Centre.