Purple Tuesday
Purple Tuesday: Accessibility Everyday (and Every Washroom)
Today we mark Purple Tuesday — a global movement dedicated to making the world more accessible, inclusive and welcoming for disabled people, their families, and communities .At the Loo of the Year Awards, we believe this message matters deeply to the world of washrooms, toilets, and public facilities. Because no one should feel side lined or excluded when they simply need a loo.
What is Purple Tuesday?
Purple Tuesday is more than a single day in November. It’s a commitment by organisations to improve the experience of disabled customers and visitors 365 days a year. It began in the UK and now spans multiple countries. Participating organisations make at least one tangible commitment each year — for example: “We will train our team in disability awareness,” or “We will audit our physical facilities for accessibility.”
There is a strong business case as well as a moral one: globally, the “purple pound” — the spending power of disabled people and their families — is estimated at US $13 trillion.
Why it matters to washrooms & public facilities
Accessibility is often thought of as ramps, lifts, or wide doorways. These absolutely matter. But true inclusion also includes toilets and washrooms, such as:
Can someone using a wheelchair or mobility aid navigate easily into the toilet, around the cubicle, and back out?
Are fixtures (sinks, taps, toilets, supports) designed for ease and dignity?
Are signs, lighting, acoustics, and ambiance suitable for people with sensory or hidden disabilities?
Is space inclusive for carers, family members, or people with larger aids?
Are washrooms maintained to a standard that reflects dignity rather than neglect?
At the Loo of the Year Awards, we inspect and recognise facilities that get it right, aesthetically, functionally, and inclusively. Purple Tuesday underlines that accessibility is everyone’s responsibility.
Our Commitment at the Loo of the Year Awards
On Purple Tuesday, we reaffirm our commitment:
To champion the highest standards for washroom design and operation, especially for accessibility and inclusion.
To raise awareness among entrants, venue operators, and facility managers that inclusive washrooms are essential.
To celebrate facilities that deliver truly inclusive toilet environments.
To encourage organisations to make at least one actionable commitment toward improving accessibility.
How you can get involved
Whether you run a venue, manage washroom facilities, or simply care about inclusive spaces, here are some practical ideas:
Review your washroom(s): is access clear? Are doorways wide enough? Is signage obvious? Could someone with limited mobility or a hidden disability use it comfortably?
Commit publicly: even a small pledge (e.g., “We will review our signage for hidden disabilities by December”) makes a difference.
Train staff: awareness can dramatically improve customer experience.
Think long-term: Purple Tuesday is a focus day, but accessibility is a year-round commitment.
For more information on accessibility, Purple Tuesday, and inclusive washrooms, check out:
Purple Tuesday – Official Website
Scope UK – Purple Pound & Accessibility
Changing Places Toilets – Accessible Toilet Standards
Inclusive Employers – Purple Tuesday Guide
British Toilet Association – Accessibility Guidance
Final Thought
A well-designed washroom says:
“You belong here.”
And with accessible washrooms everywhere, everyone does.
