A Warm Welcome to Stoma Users Visiting Ely

A clean, comfortable, stoma-friendly toilet at Fen Mobility Centre

Ely is a beautiful place to spend time. Whether you’re visiting for the day, meeting family, or just enjoying a walk along the river, it’s somewhere people come to relax and take things at their own pace.

From the stunning presence of Ely Cathedral to the peaceful riverside paths and the history inside the Oliver Cromwell's House, there is plenty to enjoy here.

But for many people living with a stoma, planning a day out is not always that simple.

One of the biggest concerns is something most people never have to think about:

“Where can I go if I need to use the toilet?”

At Fen Mobility Centre, we understand how important that question is. That’s why we’re proud to say that our accessible toilet has been officially recognised as stoma-friendly by Colostomy UK.

And more importantly, it is open to everyone. You don’t need to be a customer. If you are in Ely and need a clean, private, supportive space, you are always welcome to pop in.

Why stoma-friendly toilets matter so much

For someone living with a stoma, access to the right toilet facilities is not just about convenience. It is about confidence, dignity, and being able to leave the house without worry.

Standard public toilets are often not suitable. They may be:

• Too small or cramped

• Lacking shelves or surfaces

• Poorly maintained

• Missing essential hygiene features

• Not private enough

For someone managing a stoma bag, these challenges can turn a simple outing into a stressful experience.

A stoma-friendly toilet, on the other hand, is designed with real needs in mind. It provides:

• Space to move comfortably

• Clean, well-maintained surroundings

• Practical features that make changing easier

• A sense of privacy and calm

It’s not just about facilities. It’s about removing barriers that stop people from living their lives fully.

Living with a stoma: understanding the reality

A stoma can be life-changing. It may be the result of conditions such as:

• Bowel cancer

• Crohn’s disease

• Ulcerative colitis

• Injury or surgery

For many people, having a stoma improves health and quality of life. But it also brings adjustments, especially in everyday routines.

Simple things like going out for the day, visiting somewhere new, or even just having a coffee can require planning.

Questions often include:

• Where are the toilets?

• Will they be clean enough?

• Will I have enough space?

• What if I need more time or privacy?

These are not small concerns. They can affect confidence, independence, and willingness to go out at all.

That’s why places that offer reliable, respectful facilities make such a difference.

A stoma-friendly space in Ely

At Fen Mobility Centre, we have always believed that supporting independence goes beyond products. It’s about creating an environment where people feel comfortable, respected, and looked after.

Our accessible toilet has been assessed and recognised by Colostomy UK as stoma-friendly, which means it meets the standards needed to properly support stoma users.

What that means in practice is simple:

• A clean, well-maintained space

• Enough room to move comfortably

• A private, calm environment

• Thoughtful touches that make things easier

And most importantly:

You are welcome to use it, whether you are a customer or not

If you are visiting Ely for the day, enjoying the shops, walking by the river, or exploring the cathedral, you can stop in and take a break with confidence.

No pressure. No expectations. Just a place where you can feel at ease.

Enjoying Ely with more confidence

Ely is known for its relaxed pace and welcoming atmosphere.

You might spend time:

• Walking along the river

• Visiting independent shops

• Exploring local history

• Meeting friends for lunch

Having access to a reliable, stoma-friendly toilet nearby can make all the difference. It allows you to:

• Stay out longer

• Feel more relaxed

• Focus on enjoying the day rather than worrying

Sometimes, it’s not about big changes. It’s about knowing that when you need it, the right support is there.

Working with Colostomy UK

We would like to say a genuine thank you to Colostomy UK for their help, guidance, and support.

They do incredible work supporting people living with a stoma across the UK, including:

• Practical advice and information

• Support services and helplines

• Campaigning for better facilities

• Raising awareness and understanding

If you or someone you care for is living with a stoma, their website is a valuable resource and a great place to find support.

Supporting our Ely community

At Fen Mobility Centre, we are proud to be part of the Ely community.

This is just one of the ways we try to support the people around us. Not just by providing equipment, but by:

• Creating welcoming spaces

• Offering practical help

• Making everyday life a little easier

We know that small things can make a big difference. A clean, comfortable toilet might seem simple, but for someone who needs it, it can mean the difference between staying home and going out.

And being able to go out, enjoy the day, and feel confident is something everyone deserves.

A simple invitation

If you are living with a stoma and visiting Ely, please know this:

You are always welcome at Fen Mobility Centre

You can use our stoma-friendly toilet with confidence

There is no need to feel awkward or unsure

Just pop in, take your time, and make yourself comfortable.

Because it matters

We care about the details that help people live well.

We care about dignity.

We care about independence.We care about making Ely a more welcoming place for everyone.

And we will continue to do what we can, in simple, practical ways, to support our community.