We need to talk about toilets

We need to move beyond the taboo and “yuck factor” surrounding public toilets to a renewed focus on their important role in promoting public health and reducing health inequality. Londoners of all ages and genders, and especially the elderly and those living with disabilities and certain health conditions are too often constrained in enjoying our wonderful city by a “loo leash” — reinforced by an uncertainty about the location, availability and accessibility of a toilet.

Both the Mayor of London and the Government are engaging with the public on this issue, and awareness is increasing through recent media attention. We have an opportunity at the London Society to discuss how best to provide this essential service with our members.

This event will feature a panel discussion led by London Society trustee and toilet campaigner Clare Delmar, who will be joined by London Assembly member and Chair of its health Committee Caroline Russell along with Elvin Box, ambassador for Prostate Cancer UK and Movember, Martin Prince-Parrott of Public Practice and author of Park-onomics, a book on building public realm, and John McGeachy, Campaigns Manager for Age UK London.