Petition · Department for Education

Introduce new statutory standards for toilet access and lunchtime in schools

Open for signatures 50 signatures

What the petition asks

We call on the UK Government to introduce legislation and statutory guidance guaranteeing every pupil can use the toilet and eat lunch during the school day with dignity and adequate time. This should set enforceable minimum standards for toilet provision, privacy, and lunchtime access.
Using the toilet and eating lunch are not privileges; they are fundamental to a child's dignity, health, and ability to learn. Yet some schools fall below DfE toilet-to-pupil ratios, restrict access, or reduce privacy. Many pupils queue for much of their lunch break, leaving little time to eat. We ask for enforceable standards to ensure schools meet minimum toilet provision, maintain private facilities, provide reliable toilet access, and give every pupil sufficient time to obtain and eat a meal.

Timeline

27 Apr 2026 Petition opened for signatures

Key facts

Signatures 50
Status Open for signatures
Department Department for Education
Opened 27 Apr 2026

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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 26 Jul 2026.