Public toilet closures causing distress and anxiety

An investigation has unveiled the serious impact that the ongoing closure of many public toilets across the UK is having on public well-being.

The Guardian investigation argues that, as well as limiting people’s capacity to exercise freely or visit loved ones, the ongoing closures could also create a significant secondary public health risk as people have no option but to relieve themselves in the open.

Public toilet closures have coincided with the absence of alternatives in bars, restaurants and public buildings, leading to public anxiety, distress and frustration that is often a key reason for people curtailing their daily movements.This is especially the case for women, who are taking extreme measures such as deliberately dehydrating themselves or find they are confined to home during their period.

For those with health conditions and disabilities that bring continence problems, the situation is even worse: some Guardian readers describe themselves as essentially housebound. Key workers and volunteers making lengthy round trips to deliver essentials are likewise affected.

While Scotland’s national parks have called for urgent guidance on reopening public toilets safely and consistently, local councillors for beaches and beauty spots across England have expressed frustration at Prime Minister Boris Johnson for encouraging people to drive significant distances, but not providing specific guidelines on reopening toilets or support to upgrade to ensure safety of residents and visitors.