20 March, 2026
We are pleased to announce that the hospital has officially opened a new Changing Places facility, accessible directly from the main concourse, at the Cardiology and Respiratory Unit.
Officially opened by Jack and his mother Aisling, alongside Mary Day, CEO, Rebekah Woods, Facilities Management and Lorna McEvoy, CNM II, this marks an important milestone for accessibility and inclusion within our campus. We are proud to be the first acute hospital in Ireland to provide this much-needed facility.
Changing Places facilities provide enhanced support for people with complex physical or intellectual needs who cannot use standard accessible toilets. The space includes specialist equipment such as an adult sized height adjustable changing bench, a ceiling mounted hoist, additional floor space, and enhanced privacy features, ensuring dignity, comfort, and safety for patients, service users, and visitors who require these supports.
This facility fills an essential gap for individuals who depend on this level of care and equipment. It is designed to enable them to attend appointments, access services, and move around the campus with greater confidence and comfort.
The new Changing Places Facility aligns with St James’s Hospital’s commitment to universal design, inclusion, and equitable access to healthcare, ensuring that everyone can access hospital services with dignity and confidence.