While we may think of public toilets as somewhere we race to in a pinch now and then, they are actually essential for unhoused individuals, chronically unwell individuals, and families with young children.
A new study by Victorian Plumbing has revealed that the number of public toilets across the UK has decreased from 6,087 to only 3,990 in the past decade. Using this data, they have also been able to pinpoint the worst spots for parents and predict when public toilets may be permanently closed.
The problems parents face when it comes to public toilets
One Mumsnet user explained that she now has to bring a portable potty with her because her town has only one public toilet. The lack of public toilets has caused accessibility issues for parents, especially those with babies and children who are being potty trained.
While the portable potty is a great solution, they typically cost around £30 on average, which may not be affordable for many families, especially during a cost-of-living crisis.
One parent, Emily Agarwal, told Victorian Plumbing, “It can be challenging to locate a public toilet, especially when I’m out with my daughter and we’re far from cafes and restaurants.” We have been caught out on more than one occasion when I haven’t been able to find a public toilet. Having toilets that are more accessible to the public is crucial, and changes need to change.”
Currently, it looks like this is a problem that will not be resolved anytime soon with some cities are projected to lose all public toilets within the next 5-10 years.
By examining the rate of decline over the past 20 years, the study has revealed that parents in the Newcastle region are the most impacted by the rapid decrease in public toilets, experiencing a loss of 7.7% annually, and an anticipated disappearance of public restrooms by 2028.
Birmingham is the second city to lose access to public toilets, with them set to become fully extinct in the region by 2048, leaving parents with nowhere to go. Closely followed by Plymouth in 2053 and Manchester in 2062.
What can we do about this problem?
Brenna Ryan, a bathroom expert and spokesperson for Victorian Plumbing, explains the findings and why we need to take action.
“The lack of public toilets significantly affects parents, pregnant individuals, and children who are often in need of these facilities the most.”The reduction of public toilets can have a huge impact on people’s lives and may make parents think twice before leaving their homes.
The bathroom experts have created a petition for the UK government to make public toilets a requirement in the UK.