BC Ferries announces plans to upgrade access to 300 all-gender washrooms
Posted May 14, 2024 7:02 pm.
BC Ferries announced a plan Tuesday to upgrade over 300 single-use washrooms throughout its facilities on ships and at shore.
By the end of the year, the company says it will have improved accessibility, increased access to menstrual supplies, and converted many of its washrooms to all-gender use.
In a release, BC Ferries said the initiative is a joint effort with United Way of British Columbia.
“BC Ferries has now officially joined United Way BC’s Period Promise which aligns with our commitment to expand the availability of no-cost menstrual products aboard our vessels and at our terminals, including now in all our all-gender washrooms. These initiatives are more than just enhancements to our services; they represent our ongoing commitment to creating an inclusive environment that respects the diverse needs of all our customers,” said Lindsay Matthews, a vice president at BC Ferries.
The company says it also plans to enhance accessibility on every vessel with the introduction of Braille washroom signs that adhere to Canadian guidelines.
“Braille is an essential part of the journey for many people who are blind or have low vision,” said Shoko Kitano the BC and Yukon executive director of the Canadian National Institute For The Blind.
“Alongside Vision Loss Rehabilitation Canada, we look forward to seeing the braille signage implemented across all of BC Ferries’ vessels as we work together to champion safe and accessible journeys for all.”
BC Ferries says the changes will be in place by the end of the 2024 fiscal year.
