After years of campaigning and working alongside London’s bus drivers, Caroline Russell AM, Green Party London Assembly Member, has welcomed the announcement that more than 50 additional toilet blocks will be built for bus drivers across the capital over the next three years.
Caroline Russell, Green Party London Assembly Member said:
“I first raised the issue of the lack of toilets for bus drivers almost ten years ago. I thought we sorted it out at the time but over the years more and more drivers have spoken up about the ongoing lack of toilets on bus routes.
“Last week I spoke with the Mayor about a driver who described her anxiety when she was on her period and was worried about bleeding through on to the seat. [1]
“I’m glad the Mayor has finally committed to providing the facilities bus drivers so desperately need.
“But it shouldn’t have taken ten years to recognise something so basic – just like all workers bus drivers need access to a toilet. They do a tough job that requires intense concentration to move a massive vehicle safely through crowded city streets.
Not only is this a public health and wellbeing issue for drivers, it’s also a matter of safety. Distracted driving is a serious risk, and drivers should never be put in a position where a basic human need becomes a distraction behind the wheel.”