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AIBU?

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Original poster

To go to the toilet at work?

156 replies

Bornnotbourne · 04/03/2025 05:23

Recently started working in a school as an assistant. I’ve had part of bowel removed and disclosed this in my interview as I have a gap in my CV. I was pulled up on going to the toilet yesterday by the SLT, there were enough staff looking after the kids and I had asked another staff member. She said she expects me to go straight from one task to another (I.e looking after them inside to outside).
Should I remind her that I have a re-sected bowel? Or just wear a pad? I’m really embarrassed about my bowels and it’s something I haven’t even spoken to my family about. I go to a public toilet before work and generally only go once in work.

OP posts:
Theextraordinaryisintheordinary · 04/03/2025 05:40

Just quietly explain. It’ll be a lack of understanding on her part. They need to make accommodations for this. No need for any drama at this stage but if she is not supportive then that’s a different thing altogether.

autisticbookworm · 04/03/2025 05:37

I'd speak to your line manager and explain. The slt presumably didn't know , other staff don't need to know the exact details but do need to know they shouldn't question your toilet needs.

MajorCarolDanvers · 04/03/2025 05:37

endofthelinefinally · 04/03/2025 05:32

Speak to your union rep. I would consider this to be discrimination on the grounds of disability.
Is your disclosure about your health condition written down anywhere and did you explain the consequences?
Aside from that, I think it is totally unreasonable to refuse toilet access to anyone in their work place. However, I know that schools are increasingly refusing students access to toilets and seem to be a law unto themselves.

She needs to remind them first.

this could easily be an oversight or a misunderstanding.

Fraaances · 04/03/2025 05:35

Yep… I would even ask your union rep to come and sit in on a meeting and explain to her why her demand is cruising for a lawsuit.

BlueMum16 · 04/03/2025 05:35

Completely unreasonable to not be permitted a toilet break regardless of health.

Throw your declared condition into the mix and she's on rocky ground.

Personally I'd speak to your manager and explain the situation

endofthelinefinally · 04/03/2025 05:32

Speak to your union rep. I would consider this to be discrimination on the grounds of disability.
Is your disclosure about your health condition written down anywhere and did you explain the consequences?
Aside from that, I think it is totally unreasonable to refuse toilet access to anyone in their work place. However, I know that schools are increasingly refusing students access to toilets and seem to be a law unto themselves.

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