The Disability Discrimination Act (1995) and the Special Educational Needs and Disability Act (2001) make it unlawful for schools to discriminate against pupils with disabilities.

This means that a school can't treat a disabled pupil less favourably than non-disabled pupils.

Schools must make 'reasonable adjustments' if necessary. This includes:
• Changing any practice, policy or procedure which makes it impossible or unreasonably difficult for disabled pupils to use a service provided by the school (for example, restricting the time allowed for a toilet visit where a disabled pupil might need longer)
• Providing help (equipment or a service) which would help pupils with disabilities use certain services provided by the school (such as Braille signage on male and female toilets)
• Overcoming a physical feature (for example, putting a ramp up to enable wheelchair users to visit the toilet)

Although not legislation, the DfES’ Standards for School Premises; Guidance: Management & Finance 2000; For Local education authorities, Headteachers & governors; Ref DFEE 0029/2000, contains helpful pointers on appropriate provision of washrooms for pupils with disabilities. Paragraph 38 states: “The location, size, layout and fixtures of effective facilities to meet special needs demands careful and detailed consideration. Needs can rarely be met simply by offering a separate room with its own washbasin. So, for example, schools may need a mobile, height-adjustable trolley in which the pupil may sit for showering, which allows helpers to assist from both sides. Allowing room for more than one adult helper and bulky lifting equipment can pay dividends. And, at the same time, thought needs to be given to balancing the competing needs for assistance, supervision and privacy.”