Whitby loos could be adapted to support people with ‘hidden condition’

Almost a dozen toilet cubicles could become “stoma-friendly” as part of an effort by councillors to improve provision for people with the “life-changing condition”.

Whitby Town Council should “convert one cubicle in each of the male and female toilet blocks at Abbey Headland, New Quay Road, Pier Road, the Market Place and West Cliff to being ‘stoma-friendly’ this financial year,” a motion, proposed by Cllr Jacqui Layman and seconded by Cllr Chris Riddolls states.

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The proposal will be debated at a full meeting of the town council on Tuesday, September 22.

Approximately one in 335 people in this country have a stoma, the motion notes, and “whilst it is a life-changing condition, it is neither difficult nor expensive to make adequate provision to provide a safe, clean, and dignified place in which to change their pouches”.

The councillors have estimated the cost of the conversions would be “modest” at around £250 per cubicle, with a total cost of £2,500.

“Hooks to hang a coat and a bag, a small table to lay out supplies and appliances, a mirror to see what they’re doing and a bin to discreetly dispose of the old bags are all that is needed,” the motion notes.

People with a stoma have additional needs when using the toilet and even a simple day trip can be a potential source of anxiety, according to Colostomy UK, a charity that supports people with stomas and those who care about them.

A spokesperson said: “Because the condition is ‘hidden’, they often face discrimination too, being challenged or criticised for using accessible toilets.

“In our recent survey, more than 30 per cent of respondents stated that they had experienced problems of this nature in shops, sporting venues and visitor attractions, etc.”

Whitby Town Council. Courtesy Numminen/LDRS

The charity said that becoming a stoma-friendly organisation is about “more than meeting accessibility standards; it’s about creating environments where people living with a stoma feel confident, respected and able to participate fully in everyday life”.

“As awareness grows around inclusive design and health-sensitive customer experiences, organisations across retail, property and facilities management are recognising both the social and commercial value of supporting stoma needs,” Stoma UK’s website states.