Under the RADAR: Should you buy a RADAR key?

The RADAR key system was established in 1981 by the Royal Association for Disability and Rehabilitation (RADAR) - now known as Disability Rights UK. Its inception marked a pivotal moment in the UK's journey toward accessibility and inclusion.

What is the RADAR Key System?

In the 80s, there was a burgeoning and increased awareness (finally!) around the rights and needs of disabled individuals. A significant issue at the forefront was the frequent misuse and vandalism of disabled toilets which meant that disabled folk were often unable to attend to their toileting needs, while out and about. The RADAR key system was introduced as a solution, ensuring that these toilets were readily available to those who genuinely needed them, while also protected from potential misuse ie. drugs etc.

Over the years, the system has seen expansive growth. From its initial conception, there are now over 10,000 locked disabled toilets across the UK that can be accessed using the RADAR key. Around 400 Local Authorities have actively employed this system to ensure their regions are accessible for disabled folk.

Why is the RADAR Key System Crucial for Disabled Individuals?

Beyond the obvious benefit of providing toilet access, the RADAR key system symbolises much more for disabled people. It offers:

Dignity: Access to appropriate facilities means disabled individuals can participate in public life without the constant anxiety of finding an accessible toilet.

Independence: With the key, users can unlock facilities without seeking assistance, fostering a sense of autonomy.

Safety and Cleanliness: Locking these facilities reduces chances of misuse or vandalism, ensuring that when a disabled person accesses them, they are in good condition.

This system has been important in ensuring that disabled people can navigate public spaces with a degree of ease and dignity that was previously elusive or at best, difficult and stressful.

Should those with bladder issues be eligible?

For those of us experiencing conditions like overactive bladder, we know how simple daily tasks can easily turn into logistical nightmares. How many of us plan a day trip or weekend break activities around the nearest loo - with dashing-distance being a priority in our plans? When the urge to pee affects your life as much as it does for many women experiencing urgency or overactivity, it can be hugely limiting socially and stressful when out and about to manage leaks.

Our community, Jude and Friends, recently discussed the dilemma of whether it was appropriate for those experiencing bladder issues to obtain a RADAR key.

"I've just bought one, although I wouldn't use it except in a dire emergency. I would hate to think I caused a disabled person issues because I couldn't hang on!" shared S.

Some of the community explained that their incontinence nurse had provided one to them, while others had bought it from Amazon or via the Disability Rights website. "I've had one for many years", shared M. "I also have 'Find Toilet app' on my phone really helpful, and it's also worth remembering most big supermarket have toilets" - M

But the discussion around the 'morality' of using one when you don't fall within the conventional definitions of 'disabled' was interesting. For those with more severe bladder and bowel conditions - for example, having a stoma or colostomy bag - there was a sense that the RADAR scheme was there to support those with a greater need than someone who was able bodied and perhaps more able to go to a non-RADAR loo. " I have a Stoma, and I'm very conscious about changing it when out and about. I don't want to wait for someone who doesn't have a significant need for the RADAR toilet. I don't think they should be available to buy - people take the piss, so to speak!" - D

Where do we draw the line when it comes to higher need for facilities like toilets? Given the spectrum of disabilities and the varied ways in which they manifest, is it time to broaden our understanding of who should be eligible for a RADAR key?

A Moral Dilemma

Let's take a look at some of the moral considerations of whether we should be purchasing RADAR keys for personal use:

Severity and Need: While not all bladder conditions are alike, those that cause significant distress or disrupt daily life arguably align with the spirit of the RADAR key system – providing access to those in genuine need.

Intention and Use: Acquiring a RADAR key with the sincere intention of using it only during acute episodes differs morally from someone getting it for mere convenience.

Empathy and Understanding: If a anyone with severe bladder issues opts for a RADAR key, she should do so with a deep understanding and respect for the primary audience it serves. It's worth remembering too that not all disabilities are visible. Disability Rights are clear that the key is for disabled individuals and those with health conditions that could be supported by the scheme.

So, where can you buy a RADAR key?

Disability Rights ask on their website that anyone who feels that they have a genuine need for a RADAR key purchases their key via one of the official outlets, rather than a cheap copy. By doing so, you help to maintain the integrity of the RADAR scheme and support the work of Disability Rights to maintain the locks and the RADAR system. As a charity, they use the funding from RADAR keys to help offer resources, their helpline and support other activities that help support disabled folk.

It's important to note that Disabled Rights only sell the Genuine Radar NKS Key to people who require use of the toilet facilities due to their disability or health condition. You may be asked to provide evidence of your disability or health condition when purchasing a key.

There's no doubt that the availability of toilets for those of us experiencing bladder overactivity or urgency is a huge issue. For women over 40 grappling with severe bladder issues, the key represents hope and relief. Yet, it also poses a moral question. It's a reminder that, as society, we need to continually re-evaluate and refine our systems to ensure they serve all in need while preserving the dignity and rights of their primary beneficiaries.