A supporter recently shared a video by Molly Burke, a blind advocate and digital creator. In it, she stands outside a Female Ambulant Toilet at Guide Dogs Australia, showing a braille and tactile map legend designed to help blind users find their way.
We love that this solution is in Australia! It’s great to see accessibility features like this in place, but it raises an important question – how common are they?
Sadly – not very. Many locations still fail to provide basic accessibility features, and as a sighted person, this isn’t something I’d considered before. Imagine trying to navigate an unfamiliar public bathroom without clear signage. As our supporter said when he shared this – “Crikey!”.
Signage plays a crucial role for blind and low-vision people, helping them navigate spaces independently. Standard signs assume visual recognition, meaning those without sight often have to rely on memory, assistance or trial and error. This is especially difficult in places like toilets, shopping centres or transport hubs, where clear directions are essential.
Without braille and tactile signage, blind individuals may struggle to find the right door, locate amenities or move independently. This isn’t just inconvenient – it creates real barriers to equal access.
Adding braille and tactile signage is a simple change that makes a huge difference. These features provide clear, independent navigation, helping blind people access facilities safely and confidently. While some public spaces have started incorporating them, there are still many gaps.
How can we improve this in the future?
- Identify accessibility gaps in public spaces, like missing braille signage.
- Encourage businesses and organisations to install tactile or braille signage.
- Support advocacy efforts for broader accessibility improvements.
By sharing insights like this, we can increase awareness of everyday accessibility challenges and encourage practical, effective solutions that make a real difference.