Universal Change Room FAQ's

This is a fully-accessible and barrier-free space that provides dignity and privacy for all users. The Rec Complex's new universal change room was designed and developed in consultation with the public, and similar designs are used in many other municipalities.

The concept is still new for many, and understandably will take some adjustment, however we are confident that the advantages of this design will outweigh the concerns.

What Does Universal Mean?

The universal change room, with its completely private changing rooms, and wash rooms is just that - can be used universally by all persons, regardless of who they are or how they may identify. These spaces are inclusive of guests with disabilities, members of all gender identities, and any who wish for privacy for any number of reasons.

Why was this done?

During the stakeholders survey conducted during the design phase, responses indicated a variety of potential needs from the community including...

• desire more privacy

• prefer a non-binary or all-gender option

• require disability accommodations

• more space for families with children

• families with members of a different sex who require supports

The best way to accommodate all of these potential needs is to provide a single, flexible space capable of meeting many of those needs at once.

What has been done to ensure my privacy?

Individual change stalls provide privacy and modesty for all guests. Unlike conventional change stalls, the units are designed with high partitions and no gaps between the individual panels.

What is the protocol for universal change room use?

All guests are required to be clothed at all times while in the common area, including the shower of this change facility.

Can one undress in the main space? No
Are there private changing areas and/or showering areas? Yes

Design Features

The Universal Change Room offers:

• 23 private change stalls including 4 oversize change rooms for families, and 3 accessible shower stalls for those requiring more space.

• 150 lockers of various dimensions, including 96 new digital lockers, programmable by code or use a traditional lock

• 8 washrooms including 3 fully accessible washrooms, 1 equipped with a shower

• 3 shower stalls with doors, one of which is an accessible stall

• Bathing suit dryer

• 8 change tables, and an electric lift change table

The creation of this change facility is aligned with the City of Pickering’s values of diversity, equity, and inclusion.