Gender Neutral Toilets
Last year the University of Sheffield Students' Union implemented one set of gender neutral toilets (GNTs) located on Level 2 of the Students' Union, outside the Auditorium.
For those unaware of the GNTs and why they are a welcome addition to the Union's facilities, some information is provided below.
For those unaware of the GNTs and why they are a welcome addition to the Union's facilities, some information is provided below.
So, what exactly IS a gender neutral toilet?
A GNT is simply a toilet or set of toilets free from gender! A toilet that anyone can use regardless of whatever their gender or gender identity may be.
But why do we need that?
Because gender isn't always as black and white as male or female. For many trans* or androgynous people the simple everyday task of going to the toilet can become stressful.
If other users perceive them to be in the incorrect toilets this can lead to staring, pointing and laughing and even verbal or physical abuse. Even if another merely politely points outs that they think an individual is in the wrong toilet this can create an awkward situation as the individual is left to either explain themselves or try and find another toilet.
As a Students' Union that prides itself on inclusivity and its Gay and Trans* Friendly Policy, a set of GNTs is a simple yet invaluable service to provide.
If other users perceive them to be in the incorrect toilets this can lead to staring, pointing and laughing and even verbal or physical abuse. Even if another merely politely points outs that they think an individual is in the wrong toilet this can create an awkward situation as the individual is left to either explain themselves or try and find another toilet.
As a Students' Union that prides itself on inclusivity and its Gay and Trans* Friendly Policy, a set of GNTs is a simple yet invaluable service to provide.
I don't want to use mixed gendered toilets though. I would feel uncomfortable!
Then don't! Only one set of toilets is gender neutral, there are still be plenty of male and female toilets throughout the Students' Union building.
This sounds a bit expensive to me...
The only cost incurred by the union was that of a new sign for the door, a tiny expense for something that could benefit so many people
Are GNTs really necessary? I can't see many people using it...
You'd be surprised. As these toilets are for everyone, and as gendered toilets are still provided around the Union, there should be no negative impact for any students and a hugely positive impact for some. In a survey we did in the Autumn Semester of 2012, 44% of (490 total) people asked said they do use these toilets. Of those that don't, 17% were unaware these toilets were provided, and a further 14% said they would if they spent more time in the Students' Union building.
You've persuaded me! Where can I find them?
The GNTs are located at the end of the toilet corridor next to Foundry so can be accessed on both club nights and from the auditorium. Look for the 'Gender Neutral Toilets' sign on the door.
If you'd like any more information on the Gender Neutral Toilets, feel free to ask the LGBT Committee by email, lgbt@shef.ac.uk
