City aims to improve access to toilets and seating

Businesses across York have signed up to the For Your Convenience scheme

A city-wide scheme to improve free accessibility to toilets and seating for people with disabilities or health conditions has been launched in York.

A total of 55 businesses had so far signed up as partners in the For Your Convenience scheme, displaying signs showing what facilities were available, according to City of York Council.

The signs indicated to people with a disability, a long-term health condition or frailty that they could sit in the premises or use the bathroom without buying anything, a spokesperson said.

Dr Ashley Fisher, chair of York Disability Rights Forum, said accessible facilities were "vital for disabled people as they go about their lives" and urged others to sign up.

"We welcome the For Your Convenience scheme and encourage businesses to take part, creating a more inclusive and convenient environment for all residents and visitors," she said.

The signs indicate signs what facilities are available at the premises, the council says

The scheme's launch has followed a council consultation looking at wider accessibility improvements, and reflecting on the previous Take A Seat scheme run by the Home Instead charity.

A report found that locations in York with accessible facilities needed to be easier to identify, with more information provided about them, and that more businesses should take part.

The council said that window stickers displayed at locations taking part in the For Your Convenience scheme would indicate:

• if there was or was not step-free access, or wheelchair accessibility

• whether seating did or did not have armrests

• if toilets were available, and if they were accessible for wheelchair users

• whether baby changing facilities were offered

Councillor Jenny Kent, executive member for environment, said the authority was committed to making York "a welcoming, accessible city for all".

"We've listened to York people and businesses, expanding the scheme to include public toilet provision and baby changing facilities," she said.

"York's medieval footprint can be challenging, and we are delighted, but not surprised, that many generous local businesses and sponsors are willing to offer free rest and toilet facilities to help make our city easier for everyone."

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