Period charity call out Cambridgeshire school's policy needing medical proof of period pain

A school in Cambridgeshire is being criticised following the introduction of a new absence policy for student sickness.

Neale-Wade Academy in March has come under fire from parents on social media, commenting their frustrations on the change, which has been conveyed to parents and carers through an email, detailing the changes coming into effect "immediately".

The email, seen by Greatest Hits Radio through a source at the school, a parent who wants to remain anonymous, mentions period pain now being recorded as unauthorised, unless they have medical information relating to it.

The list of unauthorised absences also include the terms "ill" and "unwell".

Legitimate health concern

Following the outrage caused by Neale-Wade Academy's reported changes, period poverty charity Bloody Good Period have released a statement via a blog on their website, calling for the school to reconsider the policy change.

The changes have also sparked criticism regarding the ignorance towards conditions such as endometriosis, which can go undiagnosed for years.

Bloody Good Period went on to say period pain should not be stigmatised or 'require 'proof' to be taken seriously'.

Jo Atkins-Potts, Head of Communications and Campaigns, said "Period pain is a legitimate health concern that can affect students’ ability to participate fully in school, and policies requiring medical documentation may disproportionately harm those who already face barriers to healthcare.

Policies like these highlight the need for schools to factor in the reality of periods rather than dismissing and ignoring them. It's also crucial for all teachers to have a basic understanding of how periods work to better support their students.

We call on Neale-Wade Academy and all schools to reconsider this policy in favour of one that trusts students and supports their wellbeing. Education is important, but so is a student's right to manage their period health without stigma or scrutiny."

All schools urged to improve their awareness of menstrual health

Endometriosis UK have also waded in on the issue, highlighting that it currently takes an average of 8 years and 10 months to be diagnosed and then receive support.

In a post on X, formally known as Twitter, the organisation addressed the issue sparked by reports of Neale-Wade Academy's policy, highlighting that many students may have to take time off without having a medical diagnosis.

They're calling for menstrual health education to be adequately included in the National Curriculum.

Endometriosis UK have reiterated the message that period pain and menstrual health conditions must be taken seriously.

The Department for Education said its guidance with pupil absences to schools advised a "support-first approach".

A spokesperson said: "Decisions on how to record attendance are down to individual schools but decisions must be made in line with statutory guidance.

"That means that if a pupil is too unwell to attend school, their absence must be recorded with an authorised absence code in the register."

Graham Horn, Principal at Neale-Wade Academy, said: “At Neale-Wade Academy, we prioritise student well-being and recognise that regular attendance is crucial for academic success. In line with new statutory guidance from the Department for Education and Cambridgeshire Local Authority, effective 19th August 2024, we are implementing changes to our attendance policies including how student absence is reported to the school.

“These changes include increased support for students at risk of persistent absence and potential legal consequences for unauthorised absences. We appreciate the cooperation of parents and carers as we work together to ensure the best educational outcomes for all our students.”

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