Helping Bedminster residents spend a penny: local toilet map updated by SHINE HIT

Bedminster residents are fortunate to have a map showing which local businesses will let them use their toilet facilities for free, which has just been updated. This map is produced by local activist Ben Barker, who is a member of the Supporting Healthy Neighbourhood Environments (SHIINE) Health Integration Team.

The toilet map has been published in Bedminster for nearly ten years and this is the fifth edition. It’s distributed through the venues that are listed on the map.

The Bedminster toilet map is especially important to older people who want to visit retail streets in the local area. National research has shown that some people, but not just older ones, are unwilling to leave their homes in case they are taken short. The toilet map, which is supported by the Bedminster Business Improvement District Board and with printing funded by Bristol Health Partners, gives some reassurance to this group.

Ben Barker said:

“By being on the map, these businesses are signalling that they are a welcoming part of our community and giving permission to local people to use your toilet when their business is open. People may not make a purchase at that time, but they may do so on another day. They will also be visiting other local businesses and thus contributing to the economic health of the whole area.”

Download the toilet map (PDF).