Efteling Opens Third Changing Places Toilet in the Netherlands

Starting today, Efteling is even more accessible. The park has opened its third Changing Places Toilet in the Netherlands and is sending a strong message about genuine inclusion.

Visitors with severe or multiple disabilities can now use a specially equipped toilet with significantly more space, a ceiling hoist and a changing table — everything needed for a stress-free visit. The official opening took place this afternoon: Irene Moors, ambassador for the VriendenLoterij; the child ambassadors Turan (11) and Kirsty (13) from the Stichting Het Gehandicapte Kind; and Sophie (11) cut the ribbon together.

“Opening the third such toilet at Efteling today is something very special and important. For many, a toilet visit during a day out is taken for granted, but for some visitors with a disability it is a reason to stay home. Efteling is a place for everyone, and that is why we are very happy that the Changing Places Toilet has now been realized here as well. We hope this will inspire others so that many more locations become accessible,” said Koen Sanders, Director of Product, Market and Image at Efteling.

Sophie (11) and her mother Monique were also present. Sophie gets around in an electric wheelchair and is increasingly able to go on outings with her friends and family. Monique is thrilled: “We can only visit places that take accessibility into account and where Sophie can join in just like everyone else. Fortunately that is possible at Efteling, which is why we love coming here. Thanks to the new Changing Places Toilet, everything is now even better organized, and we think that’s fantastic!”

The new facility was created in close cooperation with the Stichting Het Gehandicapte Kind. Director Rebecca Gerritse emphasizes: “Children with severe motor disabilities cannot always go on a day out with their family and create beautiful memories together because the restrooms do not always meet their needs. With the opening of this third facility we are well on our way to our goal of 30 special toilet facilities in the Netherlands. And that at a magical place like Efteling. I am sure we will make many families very happy with this.” The projects are financed by participants of the VriendenLoterij.

A Changing Places Toilet offers exactly what many families have been missing: extra space to maneuver a wheelchair plus the necessary aids, in addition to the usual accessible restroom facilities. While there are already over 2,500 such toilets in the UK, the Netherlands now has three: at Safaripark Beekse Bergen, Paleis Het Loo and now at Efteling. The new toilet is located right by the playground in the Fairy Realm, is clearly signposted and marked on all park maps.