Joining forces in London
London is in desperate need of better toilet provision to improve the quality of life for the capital's residents and visitors. That's why we're pleased to announce we have joined the London Loo Alliance, a coalition of organisations calling for improvements to toilet provision in the capital. We know that 9 in 10 people with Crohn's or Colitis plan their activities based on toilet access. It is challenging, stressful and isolating if public and accessible toilets are not available.
There are 70,000 Londoners living with a diagnosis of Crohn's or Colitis. If you need the loo urgently and often, then worrying about where to find an accessible toilet is the difference between going out to enjoy everything the capital has to offer and staying at home. Adequate toilet provision is a matter of public health and should be a priority for those in power, to ensure that London is an accessible and welcoming city for residents and visitors alike.
Fern Howard, Interim Director of Services, Advocacy and Evidence
We were also recently invited to attend the launch of TfL's plan to improve toilet provision across London's transport network. While we welcome the planned improvements, it is vital that more is done to ensure people living with Crohn's and Colitis can feel confident and comfortable while travelling on public transport.
Wales roundtable
Earlier this month we met with local councils and organisations campaigning for better access to public toilets across Wales. We heard how important access to toilets is for people across society and the need for resources to be protected. The importance of changing attitudes around toilets and the differences that sign like 'Not Every Disability is Visible' can make was welcomed. The need for greater awareness of Community Toilet Schemes and better information about where toilets are available was also highlighted.
We are excited to continue this work and raise awareness of this important issue with Welsh Government and councils to ensure that services are protected.
How to get involved
We know that toilet closures are a big concern for people with Crohn's and Colitis across the country. If toilet closures are happening in your area and you want to take action, you can email us at campaigns@crohnsandcolitis.org.uk and we will share our template letter with you to contact your council.
