School sorry after GP criticises toilets statement

A school has apologised after a GP criticised it for telling parents of pupils to show a medical need for a toilet pass.

Somercotes Academy, in North Somercotes, Lincolnshire, wrote to parents and carers stating pupils who had an existing pass should provide "supporting medical evidence", such as documentation from an "appropriate healthcare professional or recognised medical provider".

The move drew criticism from Marsh Medical Practice, a GP surgery, which said the use of a toilet was a "basic health and dignity need" and writing letters was not a good use of NHS time.

In a statement to the BBC, school principal Katy Black said the letter was sent in error and apologised "for the confusion".

Black said: "If a child needs to go to the toilet at any time during the school day including during a lesson, they can. There are procedures in place to allow that to happen.

"Students may have medical conditions that require them to use the toilet more frequently. We ask parents to share medical information so we can better support students. We do not require a letter from a GP."

In the letter sent to parents on 29 September, the academy announced a review of "all existing toilet passes".

It stated that medical documentation should be "presented on official headed paper where applicable, and clearly outline the medical reason why such access [to toilets] is required".

The letter went on to state that "temporary toilet passes will continue to be issued where appropriate, such as in cases of short-term medical conditions or recovery following illness or a medical procedure".

Speaking to the BBC before the school issued its apology, Sarah, a 45-year-old parent of a child at the school, said she was "disgusted" by the announcement.

She added: "If a child is abusing the toilet scheme and wanting to go to the toilet, deal with the child. Don't punish every child."

In a post on social media, Marsh Medical Practice said it would not provide letters because it was not an "appropriate use of NHS time".

A spokesperson from the Integrated Care Board, which helps manage local health services, said: "Children should be able to use the toilet when needed for their health, hygiene and dignity, without requiring a GP letter or certificate."

Parent Dennis, 42, said he had written to the academy after receiving the letter about the review of toilet passes.

"I think the teachers don't really have a right to be stopping them," he added.

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