School blasted for ‘setting up picnic bench in disabled parking space’ where ‘teachers sit and eat their lunch’
A SCHOOL has been blasted by parents after allegedly setting up a bench in a disabled parking space, where teachers reportedly ate their lunch.
Christ Church C of E Primary School in Bristol was slammed after a photo of the bench circulated online.
Parents have been left furious after it was claimed teachers from the school in Clifton were seen eating their lunch on it.
It is claimed that the issue was raised with the headteacher and the deputy headteacher, but then a formal complaint was made yesterday.
One parent, who took the photo, told : “I took it for my personal records to be able to evidence the duration it’s been there.
“I’ve also got a picture of all of the teachers eating their lunch over it which, optically, is absolutely terrible.”
“You wouldn’t dream of using a wheelchair lift as a storage cupboard just because it’s not currently being used for a wheelchair user, you’d leave it open for access at all times. I’m really confused how they can justify using the bay in this way.
“The message that it sends out really is that the school’s use is more important than the provision that’s actively there.”
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She also said she was concerned for visitors coming to the school who might need to use that space.
The school has since confirmed that the bench has been moved after the complaint was made.
Headteacher Mrs Clare Jones said: “I am able to say, the table is not in the disabled car parking space and we have plenty of car parking provision on site for anyone who needs it.”
The head was unable to provide a more detailed response at this time as they are in “active confidential communication with a parent on this matter”.
Dozens of social media users were left outraged after the picture was widely circulated online.
One said: “What lesson/message does this teach to all in that school community? The wrong one.”
Another tweeted: “Personally I think it sends out a very negative message towards those with disabilities.”
The school’s website states: “The Equality Act 2010 applies to our school and it is the responsibility of our Governing Body to ensure that our school meets the requirements of the Equalities act.
“We need to ensure that those adults and children with protected characteristics are not discriminated against.”