Scottish Parliament changes toilet provision after Supreme Court ruling

The Scottish Parliament has made changes to its toilet facilities in the wake of the Supreme Court judgment.

All male and female toilets at the site will be single-sex after the court ruled that guidance in overarching equalities law refers to biological sex.

Three toilets in the public area of the building will now be designated as “gender-neutral” to allow for use by anyone. 

An existing showering and changing facility and a toilet in the private section of the building will also be deemed gender-neutral from Monday 12 May. This is in addition to an existing unisex toilet there.

Separate women’s and men’s showering and changing places will also be available to staff. 

The news follows discussion by the Scottish Parliament Corporate Body (SPCB), a cross-party panel of MSPs.

The Scottish Parliament said the alterations, designed to ensure the parliament is in compliance with the UK-wide Equality Act and other regulations, represent “practical changes of minimal cost”.

Writing to all MSPs and staff who work at Holyrood, Presiding Officer Alison Johnstone, a member of the SPCB, said the interim response would provide “clarity” and ensure “confidence, privacy and dignity” for all.

Further changes may be made in the longer term, following consultations with staff and MSPs.

Johnstone said: “As Scotland’s legislature, it is vital that the parliament fulfils its legal responsibilities. Our officials therefore took immediate steps following the publication of the judgment to review it in detail and to consider its implications for services and facilities at Holyrood.

“Parliament already has a good range of facilities across the campus and the changes we will make should ensure we are inclusive of the needs of all those who work here and visit.”