Danish mobility company Ergolet has installed its revolutionary Luna overhead lifting system at Cornwall's Eden Project, in a new disabled toileting facility installed to meet the needs of visitors with profound or multiple disabilities.
Each year the Eden Project hosts over 39,000 groups that have at least one member with a disability or long-standing illness.
According to the attractions' Andy Bruton, who managed the installation, providing the right facilities allows groups or families with disabled people to visit the project, and stay for a full day.
"Accessibility is part of our ethos, but there are sound commercial reasons for installing a disabled suite for people who cannot use standard accessible toilets.
"Providing better facilities provides more marketing opportunities, which results in more people coming more often, and staying longer."
The major differences between an accessible toilet and a disability suite are sufficient floor space (12sq m), and the right equipment - including an overhead hoisting system to help move people from a wheelchair to the toilet or changing table.
The Ergolet Luna system provides complete 'in-room' mobility, allowing a single carer to transfer a person to and from a wheelchair and around the room.
Although it covers all corners of the room, Ergolet's Luna lifting unit can be positioned back to the wall when not in use, preserving the open space so the room is fully accessible for people in larger, motorised wheelchairs.
Bruton added: "The main learning for me is that the world is not designed for disabled people.
"Simple things like the height of a doorknob can make a room accessible, but going the extra mile and getting the best equipment makes a real difference to people's lives."
The Ergolet Luna overhead system is based on wall-mounted, load-bearing Etrack and a compact, portable Luna lifting unit, which can be used in any room where Etrack is fitted.
The tracking can be retro-fitted where there is no access to the room above, or in rooms with domed ceilings.
