Make your voice heard and submit a response to the call for evidence on toilet provision (the deadline has just been extended to 26th February) https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/toilet-provision-for-men-and-women-call-for-evidence

Here are some of the key messages from ours:

Toilet facilities is a key area where trans, non-binary and other gender diverse people face barriers to access.

Toilets designated male or female are not accommodating of non-binary people and any space with limited privacy tends to be challenging for trans people.The LGBT in Britain - Trans report (Stonewall 2017) showed that 48% of trans people don’t feel comfortable using public toilets

Trans people are entitled to use the spaces that (best) accord with their gender identity and should be supported to do so, in accordance with the Equality Act 2010

It states in the call for evidence that women’s toilets have been replaced by gender neutral toilets. We would like to see evidence to support this claim.

Within a historical patriarchal context, public toilets were originally created exclusively for men. We welcome this review to address the ratio of women toilets needed versus the number for men.

There is no hierarchy when it comes inclusion. It is a matter of support and access for all. We call for inclusive and available universal public toilets which protect a person’s privacy, thus provide access to safe facilities for all

By advocating for universal toilets, we mean: purpose built, single floor to ceiling cubicle facilities that offer privacy and comfort for all.

Inclusive universal toilets include sanitary bins and enough space for all situations (including for parents with children, people who need personal assistance and wheelchair accessibility). Washing basins could be in the cubicle or outside in a general space.