The National Key Scheme (NKS) offers disabled people access to over 9,000 locked, accessible toilets around the UK. Toilets with NKS locks can be found in shopping centres, pubs, cafés, department stores, train stations etc.

As well as aiming to ensure these toilets are kept free for those who need them, the NKS allows disabled people to access the toilets independently, without having to ask staff to unlock them.

To access these toilets, you need a 'radar key'. Some councils, such as Manchester City Council, give them out completely free, though you may have to fill out a form and provide evidence such as a note from your doctor, a photocopy of your blue badge or a letter from the Department for Work and Pensions. Other councils may ask you to pay – for example, Cheshire West and Chester Council charges £3.

Visit your local council's website, or contact it, to find out what it offers. Alternatively, you can buy an official 'radar key' for £4.75 (including delivery) from Disability Rights UK. It's worth noting you don't need to provide evidence of a disability, but the organisation says that by buying one you're declaring yourself eligible to claim VAT relief (as disabled people are) and that the key is for your personal use.

How to find accessible toilets

You can use The Great British Toilet Map to find accessible public toilets near you – simply go to 'preferences' and select 'accessible'. It lists details of each toilet, including opening times and whether you need a radar key to access it.

There's also a special map to find Changing Places toilets, which offer more facilities than standard accessible toilets, including adequate space for up to two carers, hoists and height-adjustable adult-sized changing benches. For more details, see the Changing Places website.