10:00, 10 March 2026
Words by Cheyanne Bryan, Editorial and Campaign Marketing Executive, London
A simple change can make a big difference — and that’s exactly the thinking behind a new initiative from Morrisons. The supermarket has become the first in the UK to make all accessible toilets in its stores stoma-friendly, helping thousands of people feel more confident when they’re out and about.
The move, which has been rolled out across Morrisons supermarkets in England, Scotland and Wales, follows feedback from customers and advice from the charity Colostomy UK. It’s a practical step designed to make everyday trips, whether that’s shopping, meeting friends or travelling, easier and more comfortable for people living with a stoma.
For those unfamiliar with the term, a stoma is an opening created during surgery that allows waste to leave the body. In the UK, it’s estimated that around one in 335 people live with a stoma, often following treatment for conditions such as Bowel cancer, Crohn’s disease or Diverticulitis.
While many people live full and active lives after surgery, access to suitable toilets can still present a challenge. That’s where Morrisons’ improvements come in. Each accessible toilet now includes thoughtfully designed features recommended by Colostomy UK, such as hooks for clothing or bags, a shelf for supplies, a discreet disposal bin and a mirror to help users check their stoma appliance.
The initiative was sparked in part by the experience of Edward Mountain, a Member of the Scottish Parliament and bowel cancer survivor. After being diagnosed in 2022, he lived with a temporary stoma while recovering from surgery. Wanting to make life easier for others in the same position, he wrote to Morrisons asking the retailer to consider improving its facilities.
The supermarket listened. And acted.
David Scott, Morrisons’ Corporate Affairs Director, said the retailer was moved by Edward’s story and recognised that living with a stoma can often be an invisible challenge. By introducing these features across all stores, he said, the company hopes customers will feel reassured that suitable facilities are available when they need them.
Edward Mountain welcomed the change, saying the improvements would help bring an end to the embarrassment and practical difficulties many people with a stoma have experienced in public toilets.
According to Colostomy UK, uncertainty around toilet facilities is one of the main reasons people with a stoma limit trips outside the home. Small design changes, like a shelf, bin or mirror, can dramatically improve comfort and dignity.
To make things even easier, Morrisons stores will soon be listed on Colostomy UK’s online directory of stoma-friendly venues, helping people plan journeys with greater confidence. Find ones near you here: https://www.colostomyuk.org/information/stoma-friendly-toilets-finder/
