Revised edition of WCC's Toileting Guidance.

WCC has just revised its "Guidance on Special Toileting Needs in Schools and Early Years' Settings". Approximately three quarters of a million children in the UK aged between 5 and 16 will need some support with their toileting; this equates to two or three pupils in every primary class and one pupil in every two classes at secondary. Incontinence is not uncommon.

Childcare and Education Providers have a duty to meet the needs of children with delayed personal development in the same way as a child with delayed language or any other delay. Admission policies and practices that require a child to be toilet trained are discriminatory and potentially unlawful; under the Equality Act issues should be dealt with on an individual basis and Settings and Schools are required to make “reasonable adjustments” accordingly. It is, therefore, inappropriate for any Setting or School to delay or refuse admission to children who have not achieved this milestone.

The LA's guidance provides practical advice and support for schools and settings, including advice on staffing, health and safety, risk assessment and SEND.

For further information please contact Jane Carter in the Integrated Disability Service on 01926 413737.