Private toilets for kids in public places to prevent abuse

Several shopping centres already have specified recreational areas for kids, but do not have  private toilets. — Supplied photo used for illustrative purposes

Dubai - Children below the age of 12 shall enjoy private toilets at malls, airports and public parks across the country, according to a top official at the Ministry of Social Affairs (MSA).

Moza Salem Al Shoomi, Director of Child Department, MSA, said the move, slated to become functional by the end of this year, is aimed to protect kids against sexual harassment and abuse.

“The initiative, in line with international standards and agreements on child affairs, will provide protection to kids below 12 against the possible risks they may be exposed to when using adults’ toilets.”

Children are exposed to the possibility of sexual harassment, abuse, violence and contagious diseases when using public toilets, she added. “Therefore, there must be proper public utilities for them.”

Al Shoomi said the drive is part of the MSA’s 2014/2016 strategy. “Providing private toilets for kids shall be mandatory at all public utilities, including shopping centres, airports, and public parks.”

Every child has the right to a private toilet at public utilities, she pointed out. “Several shopping centres have already specified special recreational areas for kids, but neglected their private toilets that best suit their needs.”

Al Shoomi said there is not a  single public place with private toilets for children, and that poses a grave risk to their health and interaction with others.

“The ‘only for kids toilets’ will be built in toy areas, and shall be equipped with special rooms for changing clothes and breast-feeding babies.”

This way, parents will be sure about their kids’ safety, she stated. “Mothers will also enjoy a private place to feed their babies, change their clothes, or even stay with them if they are asleep.”

Essam Mahmud, an engineer, paid a tribute to the drive and said it would give more privacy to his wife and children. “Such private toilets will protect my children and other kids against any possible harassment from adults.”

Sherif Al Wakeel, a contractor, said he used to have a problem with public toilets at malls and parks as he could not leave them alone and had to accompany them. “With these new toilets for kids only, things will be easier and safer.”

Wafaa Mohammed, a teacher, said having a private room at a shopping mall to change the clothes of her baby girl is very helpful. “I used to have a problem when going shopping because I did not have a private place to feed my baby and change her clothes.” -ahmedshaaban@khaleejtimes.com