Girls ‘sexually assaulted’ in Essex school’s gender-neutral toilets as teen boy arrested

POLICE are investigating reports that a number of girls were sexually assaulted in gender-neutral toilets at a school in Essex.

A teenage boy has been arrested on suspicion of sexual assault, with three of the alleged incidents said to have taken place in lavatories used by both boys and girls.

The school, which has not been named, reportedly has a number of gendered toilets used by both boys and girls, as well as "open suite" cubicles that can be used by either sex.

But it is understood not to have carried out an impact assessment of the toilets, nor does it have a written policy on whether its other facilities can be accessed based on biological sex or gender identity, reports.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: "We are currently investigating reports of serious sexual assaults, which are believed to have occurred at a school in North Essex. 

"A boy, under the age of 16 has been arrested and since been bailed with conditions. 

"We are working closely with the school and local authorities whilst enquiries for this investigation continue."

A spokesman for Essex County Council added: "We are supporting the leadership at the school and will provide additional support to the school community if required.

“The school has communicated with parents and carers and has offered support.

“Due to the ongoing police investigation the school is unable to comment on specifics around what they are doing in response to the allegations.

"However the school takes all allegations extremely seriously and will always review policies and safeguarding procedures following safeguarding matters such as this."

The allegations come just days before new Department for Education transgender guidance is set to be issued for all schools in the UK.

It is expected to set out that school pupils should not use toilets designed for the opposite sex, though rules on mixed-sex facilities are unclear.

The long-awaited new rules are also expected to instruct teachers to tell parents if a child wants to change their gender, or wear different uniforms.

And schools will not be able to use the child’s new preferred pronouns until parents give consent.

Rishi Sunak has repeatedly insisted he wants to protect children in schools, as well as parents’ rights.