New seat and toilet scheme launches to improve accessibility in York
New 'For Your Convenience' scheme offers free access to seating and toilets
A new city-wide initiative is making York more welcoming and accessible for everyone, thanks to a collaboration between City of York Council and 55 local organisations.
The scheme, titled ‘For Your Convenience’, invites residents and visitors with disabilities, long-term health conditions, or age-related frailty to freely use participating venues’ seats and toilets—without any obligation to make a purchase.
Participating businesses and organisations display clearly marked window stickers indicating what facilities they offer, including seating, step-free access, accessible toilets, and baby changing facilities. These stickers were developed in partnership with York Accessibility Forum, Age Friendly York, and York BID, and were informed by updated accessibility criteria.
The project is an evolution of the earlier ‘Take A Seat’ scheme run by the charity Home Instead. Following public consultations and discussions with local accessibility groups, City of York Council expanded the scope of the scheme based on feedback asking for clearer signage, more detailed information, and greater participation across the city.
Cllr Jenny Kent, Executive Member for Environment at City of York Council, said:
“We are committed to making York a welcoming, accessible city for all. We’ve listened to York people and businesses, expanding the scheme to include public toilet provision and baby changing facilities.
“York’s medieval footprint can be challenging, and we are delighted—but not surprised—that so many generous local businesses are offering free rest and toilet facilities to help make our city easier for everyone. We’d love to hear from any organisations who would like to join the scheme.”
Dr Ashley Fisher, Chair of York Disability Rights Forum, added:
“In a city like York, being able to access things like chairs and accessible toilets is vital for disabled people as they go about their lives.
“We at the York Disability Rights Forum welcome the For Your Convenience scheme and encourage businesses to take part, creating a more inclusive and convenient environment for all residents and visitors."