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Days out and leisure

Accessible toilets and the Radar key

A Radar key opens thousands of locked accessible toilets across the UK. Changing Places toilets have extra space and equipment.

Written by Neil Hyde Last checked 1 minute read

The Radar key

Many accessible toilets are locked to keep them clean and free for the people who need them. A Radar key (part of the National Key Scheme) opens over 10,000 of them across the UK.

  • buy a genuine Radar key from Disability Rights UK, which costs about £6 at the time of writing
  • some councils give them out free or cheaply
  • beware of cheap copies online, which may not work

Changing Places toilets

Changing Places toilets are larger than standard accessible toilets and have a height-adjustable changing bench, a hoist, and space for up to two carers. They are for people who cannot use a standard accessible toilet. Use the Changing Places map online to find one near you.

Cards that can help when you are out

  • Just Can't Wait card: a free card from the Bladder and Bowel Community that asks shops and businesses to let you use their toilet, for people with bladder or bowel conditions
  • Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyard: shows you may need extra help or time, recognised in many shops, stations and airports
  • "Please offer me a seat" badge: free from Transport for London for people who find it hard to stand on public transport

Sources we used

We check this page at least once a year, and sooner when the rules change. Read how we check our facts, or tell us if something looks wrong.