NEWS: One in 10 Children Avoid School Over Poor Toilet Conditions

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As reported in The Oldham Timesmore than one in 10 parents say their children have asked to stay home from school due to concerns about the condition of school toilets

A poll, commissioned by the charity Parentkind, reveals that concerns about hygiene and cleanliness are widespread among UK families. The findings, based on responses from 2,000 parents of school-aged children, show that around 17% rated the toilets at their child’s school as unclean. Nearly a third of respondents (31%) said they had raised the issue with school staff, highlighting the level of dissatisfaction among families. Parentkind has described the situation as unacceptable and is calling on the Government to prioritise investment in upgrading what they describe as “disgusting” and neglected school toilets.

The charity is urging policymakers to consider toilet improvement as a core part of plans to modernise and maintain the wider school estate. They argue that poor toilet conditions can have a serious impact on pupil wellbeing, attendance, and dignity—particularly for younger children and those with additional health or menstrual needs.

The call for change comes shortly after the Chancellor announced funding plans of approximately £2.3 billion per year to repair deteriorating classrooms and a further £2.4 billion annually to rebuild 500 schools across England.

Responding to the survey’s findings, a Department for Education spokesperson said: “We’re investing in excellence everywhere for every child, which is why this government is dedicated to fixing the foundations by rebuilding crumbling school buildings.”

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