London’s New Public Toilets: Supporting Urgent Needs with Accessibility

Bladder & Bowel | Rapidcare

Living with bladder problems or managing intermittent self-catheterisation (ISC) can be challenging. One of the biggest hurdles is finding clean, accessible toilets when you're out and about. It's not just a matter of convenience – it's about dignity, health, and living your life without constant worry. Fortunately, progress is being made to improve access to public toilets across London and the UK.

At Rapidcare, we’re proud to partner with the NHS to provide free home delivery of medical supplies to those who need them. But we know that our work doesn’t end at your doorstep. That’s why we’re spotlighting the improvements happening in public spaces to support people with bladder problems and ISC.

The current situation of public toilets in the UK

Public toilets in the UK have long been a contentious issue. Over the last few decades, funding cuts have led to the closure of thousands of facilities. According to the British Toilet Association (BTA), over 50% of public toilets have closed since 1995. This has left many people struggling to find suitable facilities, particularly those with medical conditions.

However, there’s good news. Recent initiatives are working to reverse this trend and prioritise accessibility. In London, several new public toilets have been introduced, with a focus on inclusivity. These modern facilities are designed with features like wider entrances, grab rails, and space for wheelchairs, ensuring they cater to a wide range of needs.

London leading the way

London has always been at the forefront of innovation, and public toilets are no exception. The city has introduced a range of new facilities, particularly in busy areas like transport hubs, parks, and shopping centres. Here are some highlights:

Transport for London (TfL): Many tube and rail stations now have accessible toilets, with some offering changing facilities. These larger spaces are equipped with hoists, changing benches, and plenty of room for carers.

Parks and open spaces: Iconic locations like Hyde Park and Regent's Park have upgraded their toilet facilities to include accessible options, ensuring everyone can enjoy these green spaces.

Shopping Centres: Places like Westfield Stratford City and Brent Cross have state-of-the-art facilities, including family toilets and fully accessible options.

Quick stats on accessibility

London: The city has over 1000 public toilets, many of which are now accessible.

UK-wide: There are over 1800 registered Changing Places toilets across the UK, a number that's steadily growing.

Apps to help:  Apps like the "Toilet Finder" app and "Flush" make it easier to locate nearby toilets, with filters for accessibility and cleanliness.

What these changes mean for people with bladder problems for ISC

If you're living with a bladder condition or managing ISC, these developments can make a world of difference. Here's how:

Peace of mind: Knowing there's a clean, accessible toilet nearby can reduce anxiety about leaving home.

Better Hygiene: Modern facilities are designed with cleanliness in mind, helping you avoid infections or other complications.

More Independence: Improved access means you can go about your day with fewer disruptions.

Tips for navigating public toilets

While new facilities are a step in the right direction, preparation is still key. Here are some practical tips (and if you're new to ISC, download our free visual guide here - it's easy to save and share.

Plan ahead: Use apps or websites to map out accessible toilets along your route.

Carry essentials: Keep a small bag with items like hand sanitiser, wipes, and spare catheters.

Know your rights: Under the Equality Act 2010, businesses and public spaces are required to make reasonable adjustments for people with disabilities.

Use Radar Keys: A radar key gives you access to over 9000 locked accessible toilets across the UK. They're widely available online and through local councils.

How Rapidcare supports you

We understand the challenges you face. Our free home delivery service ensures you get the medical supplies you need when you need them. But our mission goes beyond deliveries. We're passionate about raising awareness, offering useful tools like the urgent toilet card, and supporting a more accessible world.

Want to request a free urgent toilet card? Click below to contact us.

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Driving change for inclusive facilities

Progress is happening - but there's still work to do. Here's how you can be part of the change:

Share feedback: Let local councils know if a public toilet impressed or disappointed you.

Support campaigns: Organisations like the BTA and Changing places push for better facilities.

Educate others: Share this blog with friends and family to raise awareness.

A Future of Inclusive Convenience

Bladder problems and ISC shouldn’t hold you back from living your life. With new public toilets in London and across the UK, things are improving. These improvements are more than just bricks and mortar — they’re a lifeline for those who need them most.

Frequently Asked Questions: Public Toilet Accessibility

1. How are public toilets in the UK improving for people with bladder problems or ISC?

Thanks to new initiatives, many UK cities especially London - are upgrading public toilets to be more inclusive. Features like wider entrances, grab rails, and changing places facilities with hoists and benches are making it easier for people managing bladder conditions or ISC to access clean, safe spaces.

2. What tools can help me find accessible toilets, when I'm out?

Apps like "Toilet Finder" and "Flush" help locate nearby toilets, with filters for accessibility and cleanliness. Planning your route in advance using these tools can provide peace of mind and make outings less stressful.

3. What is a RADAR key and how can it help?

A RADAR key gives you access to over 9,000 locked accessible toilets across the UK. These facilities are often cleaner and less crowded, offering a more comfortable experience for people with medical needs such as ISC.

4. What should I carry when navigating public toilets with ISC?

It's useful to keep a small essentials kit that includes hand sanitiser, antibacterial wipes, spare catheters, and a RADAR key. Rapidcare also provides an urgent toilet card, which helps explain your need for immediate toilet access discreetly.

5. How does Rapidcare support people with bladder problems or ISC beyond medical supplies?

Rapidcare offers free NHS-backed home delivery of catheter and continence care supplies, ensuring you receive the products you need discreetly, reliably, and on time. With trusted partnerships and a focus on convenience, we help you stay prepared and supported so you can focus on living confidently.