New ‘talking toilet’ in Ivybridge improves accessibility

A major new accessibility feature has been added to the recently refurbished public toilets at Glanville Mill, Ivybridge.

The accessible toilet now includes a RoomMate audio guidance system, designed to support blind and visually impaired users.

This wall-mounted device gives users a spoken description of the toilet layout, activated with a simple wave of the hand. It enables users to navigate the space confidently and independently — without needing assistance or Braille.

This improvement is part of the wider work to upgrade community facilities and make public spaces across the district more inclusive.

Councillor Victor Abbott, Ward Member for Ivybridge East, said: “For residents and visitors to Ivybridge who need accessible support when using our facilities, this is a significant change. This addition supports inclusivity and works well with the Town Council's development of 'Accessible Ivybridge'.

“We also consulted with the Four Rivers Dementia Alliance on the suitability of a 'talking toilet!' and with it in place, I'd be glad to hear feedback. This state-of-the-art system is the most recent improvement for the toilet upgrades at Glanville Mill and part of an improvement package for a number of Ivybridge facilities.”