A new petition is calling for every child in school to have unrestricted access to the toilet whenever they need it, including during lessons.
What’s happening
Parent campaigner Kerry Sutton has launched a petition in 2025 calling for a legal requirement for schools to allow pupils to go to the toilet at any time during the school day. The campaign has gained traction with parents and educators who believe that restricting access can harm children’s wellbeing.
In some schools, toilets are locked or access is limited during lessons or break times to prevent issues like truancy or misuse. However, this can leave children distressed and unable to act when they genuinely need to go.
Why parents and children are concerned
Many parents have shared stories of their children being denied permission to use the toilet and suffering embarrassment or discomfort as a result. Some pupils have reportedly wet or soiled themselves because they couldn’t leave class. Others are avoiding drinking water during the day to reduce the need to ask to go.
Girls who are menstruating are particularly affected when they cannot reach a toilet at the right time. The petition argues that no child should be punished or shamed for needing to use the toilet.
What the petition proposes
The petition calls for:
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Schools to stop locking toilets or restricting access during lessons
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Children to be allowed to go when they need to, without unnecessary permission
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Recognition that wellbeing, health, and concentration depend on basic access to facilities
The campaign emphasises that toilet access is a fundamental right that supports both physical and emotional health.
Is there a legal right already?
While there’s no specific law saying children must be allowed to use the toilet whenever they want, schools do have responsibilities to protect pupils’ welfare. They are also required to make reasonable adjustments for children with medical conditions or specific needs, such as bladder or bowel issues or heavy periods.
What parents can do
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Talk to the school: If your child needs frequent access to the toilet, you can request a toilet pass or healthcare plan through the school’s SENCO.
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Listen to your child: If they mention avoiding school toilets or limiting how much they drink, take it seriously and speak to the school.
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Support at home: Reassure your child that needing the toilet is normal and nothing to be ashamed of. Encourage them to speak up if it’s urgent.
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Raise awareness: If your child’s school has strict toilet rules, consider joining the petition or starting a conversation with other parents.
Why it matters
When children are prevented from using the toilet, it affects comfort, focus, and dignity. Holding it in all day can lead to physical problems and emotional distress. Allowing children to use the toilet when needed isn’t about leniency, it’s about respect and basic human decency.
