Association of Train Operating Companies recognises the needs of people with a stoma

11 August, 2016

The Colostomy Association is delighted to announce that the latest edition of Key Train Requirements makes recommendations that train toilets should include a hook, shelf and waste bin to cater for persons with medical conditions needing stoma bags.

The Colostomy Association is currently campaigning to improve toilet facilities for people living with a stoma across the UK. Most toilets do not meet these requirements and increase the risk of accidents and embarrassment.

In a recent survey conducted by the Colostomy Association, 24% of respondents expressed difficulty with travel in the UK. With these toilet improvements now in place it means that people travelling on trains should have better access to facilities that are suitable for them, and over time there will be fewer people experiencing difficulties when travelling.

However, it is not all great news. We are disappointed to learn that the new Crossrail trains will not have any toilet facilities and travellers will have to use toilets at stations along the route. Although this is in line with the existing underground service the Colostomy Association feel that an opportunity to update the service has been missed, and this does nothing to alleviate the difficulties that some travellers with additional needs face.

Monty Taylor, Chairman of the Colostomy Association said: “We are delighted that these changes have been made to the requirements. Some people may avoid train travel as they are unsure where they can conveniently and securely change their colostomy bag, with these recommendations in place this problem should soon disappear.”

The Key Train Requirements has been prepared by the Association of Train Operating Companies (ATOC) on behalf of the Rail Standard and Safety Board (RSSB) a cross-industry group of technical experts on rolling stock. It has been endorsed by RSSB, The Rail Delivery Group and The Department for Transport. The document helps specifiers and suppliers understand passenger requirements over and above compliance with existing standards.