We are aware that some schools have recently advised parents to obtain a GP letter to allow their child to use toilet facilities during lessons.
We would like to clarify that GP practices are not required or able to provide medical letters for routine toilet access at school. Decisions about when a child may use the bathroom during the school day should be managed through the school’s own policies and pastoral support processes.
In most cases, a GP appointment or medical note is not clinically necessary, and asking families to obtain one places avoidable pressure on NHS services and on parents.
Our Practice Policy
- We do not issue GP letters solely to confirm that a child may use toilet facilities during lessons.
- If a child has an ongoing medical condition that affects toileting, this will already be documented in their medical record and can be discussed during routine care where appropriate.
- We have written to local schools to advise them of this policy and to request that such requests are not passed on to families.
- The local school have advised their position is that if parents choose to request a letter, this is a matter between them and the practice. This is classed as non‑NHS administrative work, and would be invoiced accordingly, but the practice is not contractually obliged to provide one.
What Parents Should Do
If your child needs additional support with toilet access at school, please speak directly with the school’s pastoral or wellbeing staff. They are responsible for ensuring that pupils’ needs are met during the school day.
If you have concerns about your child’s health that you feel require medical assessment, please contact the practice as usual.
Thank you for your understanding and for helping us protect NHS appointments for patients who need them.