More Than a Toilet: Why Access to Good Washrooms Matters for Men's Health

1 November | Men's Health Awareness Month

When we think about men's health, we often think about prostate cancer, testicular cancer, bladder and bowel health, heart disease and mental wellbeing. But how often do we consider the role that something as everyday as a toilet plays in protecting our health and supporting our quality of life?

At the Loo of the Year Awards, we believe that toilets are about much more than hygiene. They are about people, dignity, independence and inclusion. This November, as we shine a light on men's health, it is important to recognise how access to clean, safe, private and accessible away-from-home washrooms can make a real difference.

Understanding the connection between toilets and men's health

Prostate and bladder health

Prostate and bladder conditions affect many men, particularly as they get older. Changes in urinary habits, including needing to pass urine more frequently, difficulty starting, a weak flow, or blood in the urine, can sometimes indicate an underlying health problem.

These symptoms do not automatically mean cancer, but they should not be ignored. Early conversations with a healthcare professional and appropriate investigations are important.

For men experiencing urinary problems, knowing that a suitable toilet is available when they need one can make the difference between feeling confident enough to leave home and choosing to stay indoors.

Bowel health and cancer awareness

Bowel cancer is another important area of men's health. Changes in bowel habits, blood in stools, persistent abdominal discomfort or other unusual symptoms should always be investigated.

Having access to clean, well-maintained and private toilet facilities is essential for anyone managing bowel conditions or undergoing treatment.

Nobody should have to avoid work, travel, social activities or everyday experiences because they are worried about whether they will be able to find a suitable toilet.

Mental health and wellbeing

Men's health is not just about physical conditions. Mental health deserves equal attention.

Anxiety, depression, stress and other mental health challenges can affect every aspect of daily life. For men managing continence problems, digestive conditions or anxiety about finding a toilet, the fear of being caught short can become an additional source of stress.

It can affect confidence, independence and willingness to socialise or travel.

We need to recognise that suitable toilet provision is not simply a convenience. For some people, it is an essential part of feeling able to participate fully in everyday life.

Dignity, privacy and accessibility

A clean, safe, well-maintained and accessible toilet should never be considered a luxury.

For older men, disabled people and those living with long-term health conditions, suitable facilities can be fundamental to maintaining independence and dignity.

Facilities must be designed and managed with different needs in mind, providing appropriate privacy, accessibility and the confidence that people can use them when required.

This is why washroom standards matter. It is not just about how a facility looks; it is about whether it works for the people who need to use it.

Breaking the stigma around men's health

One of the biggest challenges in men's health remains getting men to talk.

Too many men feel embarrassed or uncomfortable discussing urinary symptoms, bowel changes, cancer concerns or their mental health. Some delay seeking medical advice because they hope symptoms will disappear or feel reluctant to admit that something is wrong.

We need to encourage open conversations, challenge embarrassment and remind men that looking after their health is a strength, not a weakness.

Recognising changes in your body, speaking to your GP and asking for help when something does not feel right are important steps towards better health.

Why the Loo of the Year Awards cares

At the Loo of the Year Awards, our work goes far beyond recognising excellent toilets.

Since 1987, our independent inspection scheme has encouraged improvements in away-from-home washroom standards across the UK. We assess facilities against a comprehensive set of criteria, looking at cleanliness, maintenance, provision and accessibility.

We recognise that behind every washroom door is a person with individual needs.

Whether someone is managing a medical condition, living with a disability, caring for another person, getting older or simply going about their daily life, access to suitable washroom facilities matters.

We believe that you cannot manage what you do not measure. By recognising good standards and encouraging continuous improvement, we want to help make suitable washrooms available to everyone.

Where can men find help and information?

If you have concerns about your health, speak to your GP or another healthcare professional. The following organisations also provide trusted information, guidance and support:

• NHS: www.nhs.uk

• Movember: www.uk.movember.com

• Prostate Cancer UK: www.prostatecanceruk.org

• Cancer Research UK: www.cancerresearchuk.org

• Action Bladder Cancer UK: www.actionbladdercanceruk.org

• CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably): www.thecalmzone.net

• Samaritans: www.samaritans.org

• Macmillan Cancer Support: www.macmillan.org.uk

This November, let's start the conversation

Men's health deserves attention all year round, not just during November.

Let's encourage men to look after themselves, recognise changes in their bodies, talk openly about their physical and mental health and seek help when they need it.

And let's also recognise the importance of something many of us take for granted: having access to a clean, safe, private and accessible toilet when we need one.

Because a toilet is more than a toilet. It is about health, dignity, independence and the freedom to live life without unnecessary barriers.

💙 Look after your health. Know your body. Speak up. And never underestimate the importance of a good toilet.

Loo of the Year Awards – recognising and rewarding excellence in away-from-home washrooms since 1987.