Call for greater access to public toilets

Grapevine said some people were reluctant to go out if there was a lack of public toilets

The importance of ensuring continued access to public toilets in Coventry is the focus of a campaign group's meeting.

Grapevine, which helps disadvantaged people in the city, said limited access to public loos could make some people reluctant to go out.

The gathering on Wednesday, which coincides with World Toilet Day, will also be used to launch the group's Toilet Champion Awards which recognise conveniences that make visitors feel "welcome, respected and valued".

For support with its Need the Loo campaign, Grapevine has reached out to local businesses and also the city council, which has put up more signs to point to the nearest public lavatories.

The event, between 14:00 and 16:00 GMT at Coventry's Central Methodist Hall, will feature stories from people with concerns about accessing facilities.

Grapevine said a survey found 20% of those questioned stayed at home because they were worried they would not be able to find a clean, accessible toilet.

It also said 56% of respondents restricted the amount of fluid they drank before going out, with 74% believing there were not enough public toilets in their area.

Grapevine said a lack of public toilets affected older adults, parents with young children and people with medical conditions.

Age UK in Coventry and Warwickshire is supporting the Need the Loo campaign and its spokesperson Scott Collins said: "For many older people, not knowing where a toilet is can mean staying home alone."

Over the past two years, Grapevine said it had spoken to people with concerns about public loos to find solutions to the issue, and discovered inadequate signage was a problem.

After being approached with such concerns, Coventry City Council agreed to update 240 signs across 34 locations.

Christine Thomas, chair of the council's Disability Equality Action Partnership, said better signage gave "people reassurance and choice, helping them spend longer in the city centre without worry".

Melissa Smith from Grapevine said: "This campaign demonstrates how community organising can turn frustration into action."