What is the RADAR Key Scheme?
The Radar National Key Scheme (NKS Scheme) is a recognised UK wide accessibility scheme formed over 40 years ago by RADAR (now known as DRUK) and Nicholls & Clarke (N&C). The scheme today represents tens of thousands of disabled toilets, changing places and pathways that have been secured to prevent local authority closures that saw thousands of public toilets removed due to increasing misuse and vandalism that cost councils a lot to maintain. The scheme is a network of tens of thousands of RADAR NKS locks manufactured by N&C Phlexicare. This is the official lock formulated in conjuction with RADAR (Royal Association of Disability and Rehabilitation) now Disability Rights UK (DRUK). It is the only lock and key system recognised by the scheme that reliably provides access to millions of users and assists in funding the charity that uses the sales from the keys to fund disability rights, government policy
What Is a RADAR Key and How Does It Work?
Part of the National Key Scheme (NKS Scheme), a RADAR key was invented to enable access for people with disabilities to toilets, changing places and pathways within the UK. The key opens tens of thousands of RADAR locks around Britain, with locks typically found in public parks, train stations, parks, shopping centres and other public spaces. The official RADAR key is manufactured by N&C Phlexicare for Disability Rights UK (Formerly RADAR) who run the National Key Scheme (NKS Scheme).
Can You Use a RADAR Key at Train Stations and Shopping Centres?
Yes, you can use your RADAR key at many participating train stations and shopping centres. However, we recommend checking with the venue or specific station prior to your visit. Many shopping centres and train stations have adopted the National Key Scheme such as Greater Western Trains (GWT).
Is a radar key universal?
Yes, a radar key is universal and has been designed as such. The purpose of the RADAR lock and key has always been to provide reliable access to thousands of locks, pathways and changing places facilities with a single key. This consistent, reliable access has been a successfully providing worry free access to keyholders for 45 years this year. The integrity of the scheme needs to be maintained now than ever before with support from the army of people who use them. Why? As more fake lock and keys enter into the UK market claiming to be part of the official National Scheme Key Scheme to profit from it – they are creating issues previously unheard of affecting the integrity of the scheme. We have seen reports of snapped keys, broken locks people gaining access even when locked. These are all consequences of fake lock and keys in circulation. How can you help? It is important to report the fake lock and key to the building owner and direct them to the DRUK website www.druk.org.uk
What to Do If Your RADAR Key Does Not Work?
The official NKS RADAR key has undergone a rigorous set of testing to British Standards, with sea salt spray testing, slam tests and other specialist testing to ensure that the key always works in the lock. We have however been made aware of fake NKS keys that have snapped, or fake NKS locks that have caused distress due to not working. We recommend ensuring the purchase of an official NKS RADAR lock that can be purchased directly from DRUK.
Why are their different RADAR / National Key Scheme Locks?
There is one official National Key Scheme RADAR system run by DRUK with locks and key both manufactured by N&C (Nicholls and Clarke) under the N&C Phlexicare division. Other locks have been manufactured to profiteer from the RADAR NKS accessibility scheme and are not part of the scheme.
