Do you run a business that could make its toilets available to those with disabilities that require quick access?

Can’t Wait is a scheme run by the South Glos Disability Equality Network (SGDEN) with assistance from South Glos Council to encourage businesses to make their toilets available to disabled people with an urgent need.

They have created a local, credit card-sized ‘Can’t Wait’ Card for individuals to show to businesses, with a request to allow them to use staff or non-public toilets, or to use customer toilets without purchasing anything.

Can’t Wait cards are distributed through trusted partners, including Age UK, the Alzheimer’s Society, Bristol Area Stroke Foundation, community nurses, SGDEN, Disability Action Group and Memory Nurses and GP surgeries.

Who is it for?

The card can be used for all impairments which would necessitate quick, discreet access to toilets. This includes “invisible” disabilities and conditions. Sometimes a disabled person might need to be accompanied by someone of the opposite sex and can’t use single sex toilets. Fear of being unable to access a toilet urgently means some disabled or elderly people have trouble getting out of the house, contributing to isolation.

How can I get involved?

Businesses can find out more  by emailing [email protected]

SGDEN are also looking for individuals to help out – going into businesses to ask them to sign up, putting on events, updating a directory of businesses involved or promoting via the media. Again, if you are interested email [email protected]