The College is backing the ‘Grace’s Sign’ campaign, by proudly displaying an inclusive disabled toilet sign (Grace’s Sign) at our newly refurbished Physicians International Conference Centre (PICC).
Grace’s Sign was designed by 12 year old Grace Warnock from East Lothian, a pioneering disability campaigner. Grace, who was diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease at the age of ten, launched the Grace’s Sign campaign to raise awareness of hidden disability after often facing criticism for using a disabled toilet. The campaign raises awareness that not all disabilities or health conditions are visible. It also challenges the stigma around people with hidden disabilities using disabled toilets.
The refurbished PICC was officially opened by HRH The Princess Royal in February 2019, with works on the building taking place between October 2017 and October 2018. Grace’s Sign is located at the disabled toilet facilities in the lower foyer of the PICC.
The PICC hosts a range of public exhibitions and events, as well as educational and career development events for medical professionals.
By installing an inclusive sign, the PICC has joined The Scottish Parliament, Edinburgh Airport and other public buildings across Scotland.
Grace Warnock, the brave young woman behind Grace’s Sign, said:
I am so happy that The Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh are supporting my campaign by installing my sign in their refurbished conference centre. It is so important for those with invisible illnesses to be able to use the toilet facilities without fear of being judged. Thank you for raising awareness and for supporting my campaign.
Professor Derek Bell, President of the College, said:
We recognise the stigma that people with hidden disabilities can face when using a public disabled toilet, which is why we are supporting the Grace’s Sign campaign. We want everyone to feel welcome when they visit the College, and we hope that our very own ‘Grace’s Sign’ can help do that. Grace is an inspiration to all of us for her tireless work in promoting this important cause - she has achieved so much in a just short period of time.
