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Single Sex Facilities / Updated EHRC Code of Practice

At IKEA, our vision is to create a better everyday life for the many people. Therefore, we strive to reflect the communities we serve and to ensure that everyone feels welcome and respected. Equality, diversity, and inclusion have been fundamental to who we are for decades. It’s at the heart of our culture and values, supports our business performance and growth, and helps us contribute to a better IKEA for our co-workers, our customers and society.

 
At IKEA, we want every customer to feel welcome, respected, and comfortable when visiting our stores. We recognise that customers have different needs, experiences, beliefs, and expectations. Our aim is to provide facilities that support privacy, dignity, accessibility, and inclusion for everyone.
Where a gender-neutral option is available, any customer may choose to use this facility. The facilities available may vary depending on building design and operational requirements, therefore gender-neutral toilets may also be combined with accessible toilets as dual facilities. This will be reviewed regularly to ensure the primary function of those facilities (i.e., accessible toilets), does not significantly impact the customer experience for those with disabilities.

Q&A

Q: How is IKEA complying with the updated requirements around the provision of single-sex facilities?
A: We have implemented an interim solution by designating one of the accessible toilets in our stores as a dual accessible and gender-neutral facility. We are continuing to assess longer-term options to support compliance with the updated requirements and enhance accessibility across our stores.
Q: Do all UK stores meet the updated requirements? What is the timeline for implementation?
A: Yes, we have implemented the necessary changes, and we will continue to ensure that our policies, processes, and operations fully align with the updated legal framework.
Q: Doesn't this reduce the number of accessible facilities for disabled customers?
A: : As a temporary measure, we will be redesignating certain disabled toilets as both accessible and gender-neutral facilities. This approach will ensure that fully accessible toilet provision remains available in our stores while supporting compliance with the new requirements. Longer-term solutions are being explored across the business.
Q: Will customers with disabilities face longer waiting times as a result of these changes?
A: We hope the impact on our customers who require facilities will be minimal, particularly during our quieter periods from Monday to Friday. However, on busier days there may be occasions when the facilities are in use, which could result in a short wait.
Q: Why not build additional facilities instead of repurposing accessible toilets?
A: We are currently evaluating each of our stores on a case-by-case basis to ensure compliance with the updated legal framework. Where possible, we will consider building additional facilities to meet the updated requirements.
Q: What happens in stores where there is limited toilet space available?
A: We are currently evaluating each of our locations on a store-by-store basis to consider additional solutions. Regardless of size, we are committed to ensuring that all our stores remain compliant with the updated legal framework.
Q: Will transgender customers still be welcome to use IKEA facilities?
A: Yes. We are committed to providing a welcoming, respectful, and inclusive environment for all customers. Transgender customers are warmly welcomed in all of our stores and will be treated with dignity and respect at all times. Gender-neutral toilet facilities will be available for transgender customers to use if they require them.
Q: What options will be available for customers who do not wish to use gender neutral facilities?
A: Unfortunately, as this is due to an update in legal guidance, there are no alternative arrangements available. We appreciate that individuals may have different preferences; however, all customers are expected to use the facilities designated in accordance with legal guidance.
Q: Where will customers find gender-neutral toilets in stores? How will customers know which toilets to use?
A: Our gender-neutral toilets will be clearly signposted. As always, IKEA co-workers are on hand to assist.
Q: What should customers do if they feel uncomfortable or have concerns?
A: Our Duty Managers will be available and are trained to manage situations sensitively and effectively, including resolving any concerns that may arise.
Q: Can fathers/mothers continue to accompany young children into facilities when needed?
A: Where a child is too young to use facilities independently, a parent or carer may accompany them into a single-sex facility of the parent/carer’s biological sex. If customers have any questions, our Duty Managers are trained to manage situations sensitively and effectively.
Q: How will these situations be navigated by IKEA?
A: IKEA will be training co-workers on the updated legal framework and how to navigate any potential issues that may arise. Our Duty Managers are trained to manage situations sensitively and effectively.
Q: What happens if your customers do not follow the correct procedures?
A: We have trained Duty Managers on site who are equipped to manage these situations, ensuring any procedural deviations are addressed quickly and appropriately.

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