DISABILITY advocates in Salisbury are calling for urgent action after discovering emergency pull cords in accessible toilets are routinely being tied up or shortened — a practice they say puts disabled people in real danger.

The Disability Interest Group of Salisbury (DIGS) has launched the Red Cord Campaign, aiming to draw national attention to what it describes as a widespread and hazardous failure in public accessibility.

Red emergency cords are a vital safety feature in accessible toilets, designed to hang all the way to the floor so someone can call for help after a fall, sudden illness or loss of strength.

Yet DIGS says that in public buildings, shops, venues and even council-run facilities, the cords are frequently found knotted, looped, or fixed well out of reach.

According to the group, this simple alteration can turn an accessible toilet into a dangerous space.

“Red cords are not decorative and they are not optional. They are a critical safety feature,” a DIGS spokesperson said.

“When they are tied up, disabled people are effectively left without a lifeline. This is not a minor issue – it’s about safety, dignity, and equal access.”

DIGS says the problem often stems from misunderstanding, poor maintenance practices or attempts to prevent misuse.

However, the consequences can be severe, leaving disabled people unable to summon help in an emergency and undermining their independence in public spaces.

Through the Red Cord Campaign, DIGS is urging local authorities and council leaders, businesses and venue operators, public sector organisations and community groups and residents to check all accessible toilets under their responsibility and ensure red emergency cords hang freely to the floor, exactly as they are designed to do.

The group is also calling for better accessibility checks, clearer staff training and stronger maintenance policies to stop cords being altered in the future.

“Accessibility isn’t achieved by good intentions alone,” the spokesperson added.

“It requires understanding, accountability, and action. Leaving a red cord hanging freely is a simple step that can save lives and sends a clear message that disabled people are valued.”

DIGS is encouraging members of the public to report any tied or inaccessible red cords they encounter and to raise concerns directly with building owners and local representatives.

For more information about the Red Cord Campaign or to support the work of DIGS, email info@disabilityinterestgroup.com