What is a Stoma?
A stoma is a surgically created opening on the abdomen that brings a section of the intestine to the skin's surface to divert waste (faeces or urine) and affects around 1 in 30 people in the UK.
Who might have a Stoma?
A Stoma can be temporary or Permanent and is common in people who have damaged bowels or bladders. Certain Cancers or Bowel inflammations, including Crohn's disease and Ulcerative Colitis, require a stoma, along with some Birth defects or injuries.
What might be connected to a Stoma?
A Colostomy bag may be connected to the Large Bowel, a Lleostomy bag may be connected to the small bowel, or a Urostomy bag may be connected for urine extraction. These bags typically need to be emptied up to 6 times a day.
What is a Stoma Friendly Washroom?
Ostomates, or People living with a Stoma, often struggle in standard Washrooms and Toilets due to a lack of space and basic facilities.
We believe that every Washroom, including Public Washrooms or Washrooms in Offices, Schools, Gymnasiums and Holiday Parks, should be welcoming to everyone and with a few adjustments, Ostomates can feel included.
A stoma-friendly Washroom is a public toilet, usually an accessible (disabled) toilet, equipped with specific, low-cost features that enable people living with a stoma (ostomates) to change their stoma bags safely, hygienically, and privately.
According to Colostomy UK stoma-friendly Guidance, a standard Toilet Cubicle can also be Stoma-friendly with the addition of some basic Facilities;
- A hook on the back of the door: To hang clothing, bags, or luggage, providing more space to change.
- A shelf or surface space: A clean, hygienic and flat surface to lay out medical supplies (bags, wipes, scissors).
- A disposal bin in the cubicle: A bin for the disposal of used stoma bags, essential for preventing embarrassment.
- A full-length mirror: To help users see their stoma while changing appliances.
- Accessible/Inclusive signage: "Not all disabilities are visible" signage to reduce hostility toward users with invisible conditions. or...
- A Stoma-friendly Toilet Sign on the relevant Cubicle
Check out our Stoma-friendly Packs.
Do You Need to Comply?
No legislation requires washrooms to provide facilities for stomates, although legislation may be added to Document M in the future.
However, under the Equality Act 2010, service providers must make reasonable adjustments to ensure disabled people can access services, including toilet facilities. Because stoma conditions are "hidden" and often fall under disability, providing suitable facilities is a crucial part of this obligation.
Many Retail outlets, leisure venues, and local councils are upgrading their toilets to meet these standards to become more inclusive and improve the customer experience.
Increased Accessibility: It makes your venue more accessible to thousands of people living with a stoma, enhances your reputation, and demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity.
Is becoming Stoma-Friendly expensive?
No, adding hooks, shelves, and bins is a simple, low-cost modification. Ask about our Stoma-friendly Packs.
