RADAR Key Toilets: Your Complete Guide
If you've ever seen a locked accessible toilet with a distinctive triangular lock, you've encountered the RADAR key system. This guide explains everything you need to know about RADAR key toilets and how to access them.
What is a RADAR Key?
RADAR stands for Royal Association for Disability and Rehabilitation (now known as Disability Rights UK). The RADAR key is a universal key that opens over 10,000 locked accessible toilets across the UK.
The scheme was introduced to:
Prevent misuse of accessible toiletsEnsure availability for those who need themProvide security and privacy for disabled usersMaintain cleanliness by limiting general public accessWhat Does a RADAR Key Look Like?
The RADAR key has a distinctive design:
Yellow or blue plastic head (colour may vary)Square shaft with specific dimensionsStandard size – all keys are the sameThe locks have a triangular symbol on them and are usually blue or silver in colour.
Who Can Use RADAR Key Toilets?
While anyone can purchase a RADAR key, they're intended for:
Wheelchair usersPeople with reduced mobilityThose with bowel or bladder conditionsPeople with stomasAnyone with a medical condition requiring quick toilet accessParents with young disabled childrenRemember: many disabilities are invisible. Never assume someone doesn't need accessible facilities based on appearance.
How to Get a RADAR Key
#### Option 1: Disability Rights UK (Official Source)
The official provider is Disability Rights UK:
Cost: Around £5-6Website: shop.disabilityrightsuk.orgDelivery: Usually within a few daysIncludes: Key plus a guide to RADAR toilet locations#### Option 2: Local Council
Many councils provide RADAR keys:
Some offer them free to residentsUsually requires proof of addressMay ask about disability (some don't)Check your local council website or phone them#### Option 3: Other Sources
You can also get RADAR keys from:
Pharmacies – Some Boots branches stock themDisability organisations – Local groups often have themOnline retailers – Amazon, eBay (ensure they're genuine)Important: There's no legal requirement to prove disability to purchase a RADAR key.
Where to Find RADAR Key Toilets
#### Common Locations
Public Places:
Town centre public toiletsParks and recreation groundsBeaches and seaside areasCountry parksTransport:
Railway stationsSome bus stationsMotorway servicesAirportsShopping:
Shopping centresLarger supermarketsDepartment storesRetail parksEntertainment:
Theatres and cinemasSports venuesTourist attractionsMuseums and galleriesUsing Where To Wee to Find RADAR Toilets
Our app helps you find accessible toilets, including RADAR-locked ones:
Open Where To WeeEnable the "Accessible" filterLook for toilets marked as wheelchair accessibleCheck the details – many indicate if RADAR access is neededTips for Using RADAR Toilets
Before You Go:
Carry your RADAR key at all timesHave a backup plan in case a RADAR toilet is out of orderCheck locations on Where To Wee before travellingAt the Toilet:
The lock usually requires a quarter-turnLock the door from inside using the same keyReport any problems to the venue or local councilCommon Issues:
Lock is stiff – try gentle pressure while turningKey doesn't fit – some old toilets have non-standard locksToilet is occupied – wait or find an alternativeLooking After Your RADAR Key
Keep it on your keyring or in a consistent placeAvoid bending or damaging the shaftDon't lend it to people who don't need accessible facilitiesReplace it if damaged (they're not expensive)Alternatives if You Don't Have a Key
If you need an accessible toilet but don't have a RADAR key:
Ask staff – Many venues keep spare keysExplain your need – Staff can often unlock for youLook for unlocked options – Not all accessible toilets are RADAR-lockedUse Where To Wee – Find alternatives nearbyThe Future of RADAR
While RADAR keys remain the standard, some areas are trialling:
Smartphone apps for toilet accessContactless payment systemsCombination locks with published codesFor now, though, the RADAR key remains the most reliable way to access locked accessible toilets across the UK.
Find accessible toilets near you using our [free toilet finder](/map).