Accessible toilet change as people told they're 'not disabled enough'

More than a third of people with disabilities say they have been challenged when attempting to use accessible toilets, with half being told they do not look ‘disabled enough’ according to new research. Seven in ten of those challenged say it happens at least once a month.

The new research by Initial Washroom Hygiene found a third of all people with disabilities have faced negative reactions or been scrutinised by other members of the public when trying to use the essential facilities - with disapproving stares, verbal challenges and being told they ‘don’t look disabled’.

Accessible washrooms are often assumed to be only for those with visible mobility challenges, which experts say might be due to the use of the wheelchair symbol on signage. Half of people with disabilities feel that accessible washrooms need better signage to communicate that they are for people with all types of disability.

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Many people with invisible conditions such as chronic pain, autism, Crohn’s disease, multiple sclerosis, anxiety, or those living with stoma bags will often need to use an accessible washroom. Initial Washroom Hygiene has introduced six new signs that businesses can use to raise awareness of the wide range of disabilities or long-term health conditions that may mean a person needs to use an accessible washroom and is calling on businesses, public spaces, and policymakers to take action to better accommodate individuals with hidden disabilities or long-term health conditions.

Jamie Woodhall, UK Technical & Innovations Manager at Initial Washroom Hygiene, said: “All too often, individuals with hidden disabilities are made to feel unwelcome or scrutinised when trying to use accessible washrooms. Our research highlights a stark reality, that people with invisible conditions, from chronic pain to mental health challenges, rely on these facilities just as much as those with visible mobility issues.

“Everyone deserves a dignified washroom experience, and by introducing more inclusive signage, we can help ensure that accessible washrooms are recognised for what they truly are: spaces for everyone. It’s crucial that public spaces and businesses adopt clearer signage to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and make sure that all individuals,regardless of the visibility of their disability or long-term health condition can access the facilities they need without fear of judgement or discomfort."