B&Q has rolled out stoma-friendly toilets across its stores, ensuring facilities better meet the needs of people living with a stoma.
The upgraded facilities will include practical additions such as a hook for clothing or bags, a shelf or flat surface for medical supplies, a disposal bin inside the cubicle, and a mirror so the user can clearly see their stoma and bag when changing.
This move is in tandem with Colostomy UK’s wider advocacy work to improve toilet provision in retail and other public spaces, drawing on the charity’s expertise and lived-experience insight to inform both design and implementation.
With over 200,000 people estimated to be living with a stoma in the UK, B&Q recognises the importance of providing accessible, dignified facilities for both customers and colleagues. As part of its collaboration with Colostomy UK, B&Q will also roll out Stoma Aware training for customer-facing staff, helping colleagues better understand stomas and support those who may need an accessible toilet.
B&Q’s stoma-friendly toilets will also be added to Colostomy UK’s listings, making it easier for people to plan visits and find suitable facilities in advance. By amplifying the voices of people with a stoma and working alongside the charity, B&Q aims to remove hidden barriers that make everyday activities feel daunting, while contributing to greater public understanding of stomas.
Kingsley Mack, director of property at B&Q said: “Shopping should never be stressful because you are worrying about where you can safely manage your stoma. By adding stoma-friendly features to our toilets, we want every customer and colleague to feel welcome, respected and confident in our stores. These changes are a simple, practical way to support dignity, ease anxiety and show our ongoing commitment to making B&Q truly accessible for everyone.”
Giovanni Cinque, marketing & campaigns manager, at Colostomy UK, said: “People living with a stoma often tell us that a lack of suitable toilets is one of the biggest barriers they face when going out, leading to isolation, cancelled plans and a reduced quality of life. B&Q’s decision to adopt stoma-friendly toilets sends a powerful message that hidden conditions must be recognised and accommodated.”
Colostomy UK’s stoma friendly accessible toilets map can be found at www.colostomyuk.org
