A Carer's Guide to Finding Accessible Toilets in the UK

Advice

April 30, 2025

A graphic of a woman in a wheelchair with a child standing facing her, on top of a map with red pins showing where to find accessible toilets in London

When you're out and about caring for someone with a disability, finding clean, safe, and truly accessible toilet facilities can be a daily challenge. Whether you're on a day trip, running errands, or attending an appointment, knowing where to find the right facilities makes life much easier – for you and the person you support.

‍

Why Accessible Toilets Matter

Accessible toilets, which often require a RADAR Key to unlock, are more than just a convenience. For people with mobility issues, continence needs, or who use wheelchairs or mobility aids, they are essential to dignity, safety, and comfort. Carers often shoulder the burden of planning and adapting, so having quick, reliable information about nearby accessible toilets can make a big difference.

‍

Helpful Tools and Apps

Several resources now make it easier to locate accessible toilets across the UK:

AccessAble: This detailed app and website offers access guides for thousands of venues across the UK, including detailed information about toilet facilities – whether there’s a hoist, adult changing bench, or space for a carer. Visit www.accessable.co.uk or download the app to view their guides.
Changing Places Toilets: Standard accessible toilets often aren't enough for people with more complex needs. Changing Places toilets include a height-adjustable bench, hoist, and extra space for carers. You can find your nearest facility on www.changing-places.org. Many Changing Places toilets can also be opened by a RADAR Key.
Toilet Map (from Crohn’s & Colitis UK): Originally created to help people with inflammatory bowel disease, this helpful online map shows thousands of public toilets, including accessible ones. It’s free and available at www.toiletmap.org.uk.

‍

RADAR Keys for Carers

If you look after someone who needs the use of locked accessible toilets because of their disability, you may wish to consider carrying a RADAR Key yourself in order to unlock these facilities. National Carers Card holders can order our custom-designed RADAR Key, featuring our trademarked shield and a large ergonomic handle for ease of use.

‍

Get Instant Recognition as a Carer

Some accessible toilets do not use RADAR locks and require either a code or a separate key to unlock, which may need to be requested from staff at the venue they're located in. Many National Carers Card holders and National Disability Card holders find that showing their card to staff makes requesting the key or code quicker and easier, helping to avoid awkwardness and conflict. You may wish to wear your card on a Verified Carer lanyard for even quicker recognition of your needs.

‍

Conclusion

Being a carer means being prepared – but you don’t have to do it all alone. With the right tools, you can plan outings with confidence, knowing accessible toilets are within reach. Make sure you’ve got a RADAR key in your bag, download one of the apps mentioned above, and consider carrying your National Carers Card for added support when needed.