What is a Radar key?

If you have mobility problems and plan to go on day trips or longer journeys, obtaining a radar key in advance is a very good idea.

Disabled toilets are commonplace, and certain premises (including restaurants) are required to have them by law. However, they are often kept locked to ensure they can only be used by people who need them – this can be a problem if a staff member is not on hand with the key when you need it.

Below we explain how to order a radar key for yourself, plus offer tips on how to find an accessible toilet without a fuss.

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How much is a radar key?

A single radar key usually costs around £5, which should include the cost of delivery. If you are registered as disabled, you should be able to buy one VAT-free.

Can you get a Radar key for free? 

You can, but this depends on where you live. Many local councils give them away for free or will charge a nominal amount for them.

You'll generally need to apply with some form of proof that you qualify, such as a copy of a letter from your GP or a copy of your Blue Badge if you have one.

How to get a Radar key

The Radar National Key Scheme is named after The Royal Association for Disability and Rehabilitation, the now-defunct charity that founded it. It was designed to make sure that people needing to use disabled toilets could do so at all times.

You can order a Radar key from several organisations, local authorities and retailers, including the following:

• Age UK – sells a Radar disabled toilet key for around £5. The key has an easy-grip handle.
• Argos – has the Blue Badge Co Plain Radar Key at around £6.
• Blue Badge Company – offers a selection of radar keys in different colours to suit your style. Expect to pay between £5-10.
• Disability Rights UK – sells a single radar key for £6.

Wherever you decide to shop, make sure you're dealing with a reputable retailer so you can be sure your key is genuine.

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How to find an accessible toilet

To find out if there are any Radar toilets near you, use the Great British Public Toilet Map.

From the website (accessible on mobile and desktop), you'll be presented with an overview of nearby facilities. Select Filter and then enable the Radar Key option. Selecting a toilet from the map will display information on opening hours and features.

Meanwhile, Changing Places toilets offer additional equipment and facilities, over and above a standard accessible toilet. They are designed to allow people with more complex disabilities to use the toilets safely and comfortably.

Radar-compatible toilets are usually found at public spots such as shopping centers, parks, stations and restaurants. While some buildings will use their own system, the Radar key remains widely accepted.

Do Radar keys open all disabled toilets? 

Radar keys are designed to open a universal type of lock used on most disabled toilets. While they won't open every single disabled toilet, such as those in some private premises, according to Disability Rights UK they open more than 9,000 across the UK – so a substantial number.

Will a Radar key work abroad?

A Radar key will not work abroad, but there is a similar scheme called the Eurokey in parts of Europe that unlocks accessible toilets. 

For more information, or to order a Eurokey, you'll need to contact CBF Darmstadt – that's the organisation that runs the scheme. You might also find it useful to use Google Translate as the website is in German.

Note that the Eurokey is considerably more expensive than a Radar key at around €23 (approximately £20).

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