School Denies Toilet Access to 14-Year-Old with Medical Needs

A 14-year-old boy, Bailey Wood, has been barred from using the toilet during class hours despite having a medical condition that requires urgent access. This situation has emerged as Bailey, who is under the care of the Urology Team at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, began his new term in Year 10. His family claims that he was never restricted from using the toilet in previous years, raising concerns about the school’s new policy.

Bailey has always demonstrated exemplary behavior, earning an award for not receiving any negative behavior points during Year 9. His parents, Macala and Daniel Wood, express frustration over the school’s decision, which they say has created unnecessary stress for their son. According to Macala, a charity worker, the school informed them that Bailey could no longer have a toilet pass because a letter from Alder Hey was deemed outdated.

The hospital’s recent letter clarifies Bailey’s medical condition, indicating that he experiences sudden urgency with little warning. It states: “As part of his treatment plan, we are encouraging Bailey to maintain a good oral intake and to visit the toilet regularly. It is essential Bailey has access to his water bottle whilst in school… he can become very anxious in relation to accessing the toilet.”

After presenting this letter, Bailey returned to school only to be met with further refusal. His parents report that three teachers declined to acknowledge the new medical documentation. Following inquiries with the school, the family received a response stating that Bailey would be allowed a toilet pass only for the afternoon sessions.

Macala’s frustration is palpable as she questions the logic behind restricting Bailey’s access in the morning. “If he needs to go, he needs to go,” she asserts, emphasizing the impact this policy has on her son’s well-being. The situation poses not only a physical challenge for Bailey but also an emotional one, as he worries about potential embarrassment.

In a decisive response, Macala announced her intention to keep Bailey home from school until they receive written confirmation that he can use the toilet as needed. She noted the importance of his education and expressed a desire for him to remain in school, particularly as he is preparing to begin his GCSEs.

Currently, Bailey remains at home while his parents seek an agreement with the school. Although the school insists that the situation has been resolved and Bailey can return, his parents maintain that they have yet to receive the necessary documentation. They were informed that a letter confirming his toilet access could take several days to issue.

The school has released a statement addressing the situation, clarifying that it does not have a formal toilet pass system. Instead, pupils are encouraged to ask their teachers for permission to use the toilet at any time. The school also noted that adjustments for special medical needs are typically arranged in consultation with parents.

They stated: “In this case, a discretion adjustment was put in place following a discussion with the parent, who requested discretion around the child’s medical needs. We are confident that our approach is in line with our duty of care and supports the welfare and dignity of all pupils.”

As the situation unfolds, Bailey’s family continues to advocate for his right to access the facilities he needs, hoping to prevent other students from experiencing similar challenges in the future.