A significant portion of individuals working within the Scottish Parliament building have expressed uncertainty about restroom access following recent policy changes. An internal survey indicated that only 68 percent of MSPs and their staff feel they have a clear understanding of which facilities they are designated to use.
Scottish Parliament officials revised their policy on access to toilets and changing rooms in May, in the wake of a Supreme Court ruling that defined a woman based on biological sex. The updated policy provides male, female, gender-neutral, and accessible toilets for all personnel and visitors. However, the survey results suggest a mixed reception to the new approach.
Across all staff in the building, 74 percent reported understanding the facility designations, but this figure dropped to 68 percent specifically for those in the MSP block. Furthermore, only 51 percent of all staff believed the current approach was "fair and inclusive," with this number falling to 45 percent for MSPs and their direct staff.
The survey, conducted by Optima Workplace Performance, also highlighted that a higher proportion of trans, non-binary, disabled, and neurodivergent employees reported a lack of understanding regarding the policy. While confidence in the availability of suitable facilities was described as "broadly positive overall," opinions on fairness and inclusivity were more divided.
Respondents frequently mentioned terms such as "gender," "neutral," and "trans" in their feedback, indicating that the interim stance is perceived as a personal and identity-related issue. The report noted that free-text comments from individuals directly impacted and those not directly affected demonstrated the issue's personal resonance.
One of the most frequently suggested improvements from survey respondents was an increase in single-occupancy restroom options. Lorna Hunter, director of people, communications, and inclusion at the Scottish Parliament, stated that the survey's findings will inform future facility, policy, and service design to better reflect the experiences of those who work in and visit Holyrood. She added that any proposed improvements will be proportionate, evidence-based, and guided by inclusive and accessible design principles.