Teenager Holly Hicks Quits School Over Toilet Access Issues

A 15-year-old girl has left Radyr Comprehensive School in Cardiff after being denied access to the toilet during lessons, even when on her period. Holly Hicks, who is autistic, now receives home education and is speaking out about the embarrassment girls face due to restricted toilet access in schools.

“We Weren’t Allowed to Use Toilets – Even on Our Periods”

Holly left school in early 2024 while in Year 9, though she is still officially enrolled. She now studies online at home with the help of a private tutor.

She says school policies are causing “humiliation and anxiety” for girls who need to use the toilet during lessons—especially those who start their period unexpectedly.

“When I’ve asked to go to the toilet because I’ve started my period, I’ve been told ‘you have to wait until break’,” Holly told Wales Online.

“But at break time, the toilets are so crowded you can’t get in, and it’s uncomfortable to change your pad with so many people around.”

Holly says while she understands the concerns around students vaping and misusing toilets, punishing all pupils isn’t the answer.

“They should fix the behaviour issue, not lock the toilets for everyone.”

Dirty, Locked, and Inaccessible Toilets

According to Holly, the school often kept whole toilet blocks locked during lessons. Even those with a toilet pass needed to find a staff member to unlock the doors.

“If you get your period and can’t access a toilet, it becomes a stressful ordeal. I’ve seen friends bleed through their uniforms.”

Support from Mum and Autism Challenges

Holly’s mother, Jo Wallace, said her daughter’s autism made toilet access even more essential. She remembers having free access to toilets when she attended Radyr herself in the 1990s.

“Holly needed the toilet not just for periods, but to help regulate her anxiety. Now we pay hundreds a month for online learning so she can feel safe.”

School and Government Response

The Welsh Government has said that toilets should be open throughout the day. A spokesperson confirmed: “We provide clear guidance to schools that toilets must be accessible at all times.”

Meanwhile, Cardiff Council said it is working with schools to find solutions. The council has invested over £1 million through its Period Dignity initiative, aiming to reduce stigma and provide free period products in secondary schools.

“We recognise the need to balance safeguarding with dignity,” a council spokesman said.