London bus drivers forced to wee in bushes and bottles due to ‘degrading’ lack of bathrooms, GMB Congress hears  

Some drivers bring a bottle to work – it’s awful but when you’ve got to go you’ve got to go, GMB Congress hears.

London bus drivers are forced to wee in bushes and bottles due to a lack of bathrooms on route, GMB Congress heard today [Monday 13 June 2022].

At least 175 bus routes in the capital only have one bathroom, meaning drivers have to go up to four hours without access to proper facilities.  

GMB Union represents thousands of bus, lorry, taxi and delivery drivers who are all facing the same problem – Congress heard.  

The union passed a motion calling for toilet facilities for at the start and end of all bus routes to half the time drivers have to wait to reach a loo. 

Mike Tinnion, GMB London Region member and London bus driver, said: 

 “A lot of drivers are leaving the profession – it’s just grim.  

 “We need the keys to the city’s loos – it’s just a basic dignity.  

“It can’t be right that you’re forced to bring a bottle to pee in to work – it’s even worse if you’re a woman or have any health issues.“