Unisex school loos proposed by government

Equality campaigners have welcomed a Scottish Government proposal to introduce unisex lavatories in Scottish schools in an attempt to address gender issues.

James Morton of the Equality Network said gender neutral lavatories reduced bullying and graffiti and were safer for young people.

The plans were outlined in Scottish Government guidance setting out the minimum standards for school buildings, which updates regulations first introduced in the 1960s.

It said: “The School Premises Regulations do not prescribe standards for accessible sanitary facilities for persons with a disability or refer to unisex toilets that could address gender issues. Therefore, the Regulation needs to be updated and simplified to meet current expectations.”

Critics of unisex toilets, which have a communal area for handwashing and cubicles, fear some pupils would be too embarrassed to use them and believe they could encourage sexual activity.

But Mr Morton, Scottish Trans Alliance Manager, welcomed the proposal saying it would suit transgender pupils, many of whom fear going to the loo.

He said: “Gender neutral private cubicles with open washing spaces reduce bullying and graffiti. Therefore, gender neutral toilets are safer for all young people.”