UPDATE: |£6 key that can unlock more than 10,000 disabled toilets across the UK News

People living with disabilities could gain further access to certain toilets with just one little key

People living with a disability could gain access to more than 10,000 locked restrooms across the country for just £6. The Royal Association for Disability and Rehabilitation (RADAR) key is a blue-tipped key that can provide access to disabled toilets across 400 local authorities.

The main aim of keeping these locked is so that they can remain free and clean for people with disabilities who are unable to use regular toilet facilities. These special toilets can be found across the country, especially in train stations, cafes, supermarkets and airports. While RADAR keys are £5.40 without VAT, this is only the case for people with disabilities or their carers.

If someone purchases the key on behalf of an organisation like a care home then they are required to pay the VAT which would lead to a price of £6. While some people may be able to get a RADAR key provided to them by their local authority, the only places that sell genuine RADAR keys can be found either through the Blue Badge Company or Disability Rights UK.

Who is eligible for a RADAR key?

As previously stated, Radar keys are intended for use only by people with a disability or carer who has a genuine need to use disabled toilets and are otherwise unable to use toilets freely open to general members of the public. This sentiment is echoed by Disability Rights UK who state on their website: “We only sell the Genuine Radar NKS Key to people who require use of the toilet facilities due to their disability or health condition.

“By purchasing a key VAT free you are declaring yourself eligible to claim VAT relief and that the key is for your domestic and personal use only.”

Am I able to use a RADAR key abroad?

Unfortunately, the RADAR key scheme is currently only available for use in the UK. However, if you’re travelling to Europe you could take advantage of the European disabled toilet key scheme which essentially operates in the same way.

However, unlike the RADAR key, the Euro-key is a bit more expensive at 25 euros plus shipping. The Euro-key allows people with disability to access disabled toilets and lifts across many parts of Europe – this is especially helpful where such things are prevalent such as shopping centres or museums.

The Euro-key is widely popular in countries such as Germany, Austria, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, and Switzerland. The key is believed to access as many as 12,000 locks through the region.

Another drawback to the Euro-key is that it is very difficult to have one shipped to the UK and may only be obtainable once you are in continental Europe.