Jenna Robinson campaigns for improved stoma-friendly toilets in East Riding
Local council meeting to discuss accessible toilet improvements
Jenna Robinson, 38, is advocating for better stoma-friendly accessible toilets and is set to attend a meeting of the East Riding of Yorkshire Council.
Robinson is urging her local councillor to review public conveniences owned by the authority.
Aiming to improve stoma accessibility, she founded the Beverley Stoma Support Group and seeks installations of shelves in standard disabled toilets for medical supplies.
She highlighted the inadequacy of accessible toilets, saying: “When you see a disabled or an accessible toilet, you think everything is in there and equipped with everything you need, but unfortunately it’s few and far between.”
Robinson is pushing for better facilities for people with stomas and hidden disabilities to lead a more independent life.
Her stoma, fitted in November 2025, transformed her life after living for eight years with slow transit constipation.
Reflecting on her journey, Robinson said:
"I had my daughter and a C-section, which led to severe constipation. I suffered for quite a while despite taking laxatives. Eventually, I was diagnosed with slow transit constipation. My stoma is rare for this condition, as stomas are usually for colitis or Crohn's. It allows waste to exit via my stomach into a bag. Before my stoma, living was really difficult with constant pain and endless appointments. My stoma has given me a new lease on life; I can play with my children again."
Colostomy UK’s National Campaign
Geovanni Cinqui, from Colostomy UK, noted over 200,000 people live with a stoma in the UK and shared details of a national campaign aimed at lawmakers in June.
The charity’s campaign advocates for stoma-friendly toilet facilities equipped with hooks, shelves, and mirrors.
Cinqui stressed the significance of local councils providing suitable toilet facilities for stoma users, alongside collaboration with shopping centres and businesses.
While "changing places" accessible toilets are well-equipped, standard disabled facilities often fall short in meeting the needs of stoma users.
Council Support for Toilet Improvements
Councillor Denis Healy has invited Robinson to attend the East Riding of Yorkshire Council meeting.
He will propose the council looks into improving these facilities, emphasising the small changes that can make a significant difference for stoma users.
Healy explained the importance of providing a platform for Robinson’s campaign:
"Emma came to us, contacting one of my fellow town councillors, Paul Coe, to explain Jenna's difficulties. We met with Jenna to hear her voice, and today's council meeting allows her story to be heard."
Healy further outlined the straightforward nature of Robinson’s request:
"She's asking for simple additions like shelves in toilets, hooks for coats and bags—ways to maintain dignity when using a stoma. These changes aren't massive investments but can greatly change someone's experience."
Addressing hidden disabilities, Healy acknowledged the judgement faced by stoma users:
"Jenna shared shocking instances of verbal abuse she encountered in toilets because her disabilities aren’t visible. Councillors need to hear this, and these minor yet profound adjustments by councils can hugely improve lives."
Healy hopes the motion will inspire similar initiatives in other councils:
"The East Riding of Yorkshire Council manages a vast area. Its approach can set an example for councils like Hull City Council and North Yorkshire Council. While Parliament discussed the issue, practical changes occur at the local level."