Scheme makes nearby washrooms available to Crohn’s sufferers

GoHere Washroom Access Initiative is a scheme that encourages businesses to open up their facilities to those in need, no questions asked.

Over 250,000 Canadians live with Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis — conditions which can cause them to need to use a washroom between five and twenty times a day. Now, GoHere Washroom Access Initiative is a scheme which encourages businesses to open up their facilities to ensure that those in need can always find a washroom when they are out and about.

Participating businesses can display a GoHere decal in their window, which will let community members know that they can use the washroom, no questions asked. Users can also search for nearby washrooms using the Washroom Finder App, which will show them the closest participant, anywhere in Canada. The app also includes a virtual access card, which shows proof of medical need to enable people to use washrooms that have not yet joined the scheme.

The scheme was created in collaboration with Crohn’s and Colitis Canada and is free for any business or individual to join. Could the scheme be adapted to include other people — such as those with disabilities, and pregnant or breastfeeding women?