Mansfield MP Ben Bradley is delighted that Government has announced that all new public buildings should have separate male and female toilets, as part of the common sense approach to protect single sex spaces.
Mr Bradley has consistently made the point that it is vital women feel safe and comfortable when using public facilities, and that their needs are respected.
The approach will mean women, who may need to use facilities more often for example because of pregnancy and sanitary needs, have appropriate facilities.
The move follows a call for evidence which gathered a wide range of views, including from pregnant women, older people, disabled people and people who come under the protected characteristic of gender reassignment.
The rise in ‘gender neutral’ toilets raised safety concerns from women who feel they are losing privacy and being unfairly disadvantaged.
Separate unisex (or universal) toilets should be provided if there is space, but should not come at the expense of female toilets.
A consultation will be launched in the autumn, which will also consider the design of unisex self-contained cubicles to maximise privacy and whether improvements to disabled persons toilets should be made. The changes will be made through building regulations and guidance. Disabled toilet provision will not be affected by the changes.
The Mansfield MP has also welcomed news that the Health Secretary has forced the NHS to scrap the NHS Chief People Officer role in bid to save £200,000 a year and has launched a review into ‘Diversity and Inclusion’ roles.
Commenting, Ben Bradley MP said:
“Fantastic announcement from the Minister for Equalities! I’m delighted Government is ensuring all public buildings must have single sex bathrooms to protect the rights and safety of women, in particular.
“From speaking to constituents, I know that many were concerned about the trend to make everything ‘gender neutral’, so I am pleased Government has listened. It may seem like a very small thing, but I’m pleased Government isn’t just letting these things go ahead and has actually taken action to ensure women feel safe and comfortable when using public facilities.
“I’m also delighted that we’re scrapping the ridiculous ‘Chief People Officer’ role in the NHS – on £230k pa – and having a review of the vast array of ‘Diversity and Inclusion’ roles that are costing us millions each year. Sensible suggestion, why not divert this money in to actual health care..
“Another win for common sense and small ‘c’ conservatism!”
