A GROUP of disabled children and adults were banned from using the toilets at Newton Abbot Leisure Centre and told to ‘go in the hedge’.

The groups meet on weekday evenings to take part in inclusive sports sessions at the multi-use games area at The Station Youth Club.

During school holidays, when the centre is closed, the sports nights continue.

But having previously been able to use the toilets at the Teignbridge Council-run sports centre, they have now been given a firm no.

Steven Ware, one of the coaches, said the pitch, which is to the rear of Newton Abbot Leisure Centre, is hired from the youth club but previously, if any participants needed to use a toilet, they could use the centre loos during the holidays.

This summer however, the adults and children at the sports sessions were barred.

Steve said: ‘There aren’t many clubs like this which are totally inclusive.

‘We were given permission to use the toilets then we were told it was a management decision not to allow us in and, when I queried it, I was told they could go in the hedge.

‘It’s very rare the toilets are needed but when any of the adults or children require the loo they need to go instantly and being forced to be humiliated by having to pee in a bush in public is not right.

‘Many have bladder and bowel issues and one has a colostomy.

‘There is always someone with them, either a parent, carer or support worker.

‘It is humiliating and we have some girls who can’t be expected to go in a hedge.

‘It is very disappointing, frustrating and absolutely unacceptable in this day and age.

‘They get so much out of these sessions which are tailored to their abilities, improving mobility and their social skills.’

Up to 12 adults attend Wednesday sessions and about 10 children up to age 15 on Tuesdays.

A spokesman for Teignmouth Council said it was sorry to hear concerns raised.

They said: ‘We recognise the importance of ensuring people with disabilities can access appropriate welfare facilities.

‘We have been advised it would be highly unusual for a person presenting a recognised access card requiring toilet facilities to be refused access.

‘We understand the activity groups in question normally rely on facilities at the neighbouring youth centre.

‘Where those facilities are unavailable, such as during school holiday periods, we would seek to accommodate requests from participants who require access to toilet facilities.

‘The centre has previously experienced issues with large groups of young people entering the site after school without intending to use the facilities.

‘However, this should not affect individuals with disabilities and legitimate welfare requirements, and we are clear that anyone requiring access to toilet facilities because of a disability or medical need should be treated sensitively and appropriately.

‘While organisations hiring external facilities should ensure suitable welfare arrangements are in place for participants, we have nevertheless taken this feedback seriously.

‘We will be speaking with staff to reinforce our expectations and ensure there is a clear and consistent understanding of the support that should be provided to people with additional needs.

‘We remain committed to ensuring our facilities are accessible and welcoming to everyone in our community.’