Which slings and straps support safe toileting for pupils in UK SEND schools?

For pupils in UK special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) schools who need support with toileting, the right hoist sling can help make transfers safer, more comfortable and more dignified. Toileting slings, full-support slings and suitable transfer accessories each have different purposes. The most appropriate option depends on the pupil’s mobility, postural support needs, the transfer method and the equipment specified in their individual moving and handling plan.

Toileting can be a regular part of the school day, so having suitable equipment and clear procedures in place is important for both pupils and staff. Understanding the differences between sling types can help schools review their moving and handling arrangements and identify where further advice may be needed.

What is a toileting sling?

A toileting sling is designed to support a person during a hoisted transfer while providing greater access to clothing and the toileting area than many general-purpose slings.

For SEND schools, this can be useful when a pupil needs assistance transferring between a wheelchair, changing bench or toilet. However, toileting slings generally provide less support than full-body slings, so they are not suitable for every pupil.

Before selecting a toileting sling, schools should consider:

  • Postural support: Can the pupil maintain a safe position with the support the sling provides?

  • Mobility and muscle control: Does the pupil have sufficient trunk control, or do they need additional head and body support?

  • Comfort and dignity: Does the sling allow the transfer to be carried out with appropriate privacy and minimal discomfort?

  • Compatibility: Is the sling approved for use with the school’s specific hoist?

  • Individual requirements: Does the sling match the pupil’s moving and handling assessment and care plan?

A toileting sling should never be chosen solely because it makes clothing access easier. The pupil’s safety and support needs must come first.

Which slings are suitable for toileting in SEND schools?

Different sling designs support different transfer requirements. The following options can help schools understand what to discuss with their moving and handling adviser, occupational therapist or equipment supplier.

https://medaco.co.uk/slings-online-store/

Toileting slings are designed to provide access for personal care during a hoisted transfer. Depending on the design, they may have a more open area around the seat and legs than a full-support sling.

They may be appropriate for pupils who can tolerate the level of support provided by the specific sling and whose assessment confirms that this is a suitable option.

Considerations for schools:

  • Check the level of trunk and upper-body support required.

  • Follow the manufacturer’s fitting and attachment instructions.

  • Confirm whether any additional support belt is required and approved for that sling.

  • Ensure staff know how to position the sling correctly before lifting.

Not every pupil can be safely supported by a toileting sling. If a pupil needs substantial postural support, an alternative may be required.

What straps are used with toileting slings?

The word straps can refer to several different components of moving and handling equipment. In SEND schools, it’s important to distinguish between sling attachment loops, leg supports and additional safety belts.

Sling attachment loops

Loop attachments connect a compatible sling to the hoist’s spreader bar. Some slings offer different loop positions to adjust the supported position during a transfer.

Staff should use only the loop configuration specified in the pupil’s handling plan and the manufacturer’s instructions. Incorrect attachment or inconsistent loop selection can increase the risk of slipping or falling.

Additional safety belts

Some toileting slings incorporate a belt or have an approved additional support belt. These are design-specific features and must be used as instructed by the manufacturer.

A belt must not be added to a sling unless the manufacturer confirms it is compatible and the pupil’s assessment specifies its use. A belt also does not make an otherwise unsuitable sling safe.

Leg straps and supports

The leg sections of a sling help support and position the pupil during lifting. Their shape, placement and attachment method vary between models.

Staff should follow the prescribed fitting technique and check that the sling is correctly positioned before the transfer begins.

How should SEND schools choose the right toileting sling?

The most suitable sling is the one that meets the pupil’s assessed needs while working safely with the school’s equipment and toileting arrangements.

Consideration What schools should check
Pupil’s support needs Head control, trunk stability, movement, weight-bearing ability and comfort
Toileting access Whether the sling design allows the required personal care without compromising support
Hoist compatibility The sling is approved for the specific hoist and attachment system
Fit and sizing The manufacturer’s sizing guidance is followed and the pupil is properly supported
Toileting environment Available space, toilet access, changing facilities and the transfer route
Staff competence Staff are trained and competent in the specific sling, hoist and transfer procedure
Equipment condition The sling and hoist are checked and maintained in line with the relevant instructions and requirements

These checks should form part of the pupil’s individual moving and handling assessment, not a one-size-fits-all school policy. HSE guidance highlights that incorrect sizing, unsuitable sling types and incompatible equipment can contribute to serious accidents.

How can schools support safe and dignified toileting?

Choosing suitable equipment is only one part of safe toileting. Schools also need consistent procedures that protect pupils’ comfort, privacy and dignity.

1. Keep moving and handling plans up to date

Each pupil who requires hoisting should have an individual plan setting out the equipment, sling size and type, attachment configuration, transfer method and number of staff required.

Plans should be reviewed when a pupil’s needs, equipment or circumstances change.

2. Train staff on the specific equipment

Staff should receive appropriate practical training and competency checks for the hoists and slings they use. Knowing how to operate one model does not automatically mean someone is competent to use another.

3. Complete checks before use

Staff should inspect the sling for damage and deterioration, check the hoist and attachments, and ensure the sling is correctly fitted. Any equipment that may be unsafe should be taken out of use and reported in accordance with school procedures.

4. Maintain and examine equipment

Schools should maintain appropriate records and arrange inspections and thorough examinations in accordance with applicable requirements. LOLER applies to relevant lifting equipment used at work, with thorough examinations generally required at least every six months for equipment used to lift people, unless a valid written scheme specifies otherwise.

5. Protect privacy and dignity

Toileting arrangements should respect the pupil’s communication preferences, privacy and individual needs. Staff should explain what is happening in an age-appropriate way, follow the agreed care plan and allow sufficient time for transfers.

When should a SEND school review its toileting equipment?

It may be time to review the school’s current equipment and procedures if:

  • Staff find it difficult to position pupils comfortably for toileting.

  • Existing slings restrict access for personal care.

  • Pupils’ mobility or postural support needs have changed.

  • Staff are uncertain which sling or attachment configuration to use.

  • Equipment is incompatible, damaged or no longer suitable.

  • Toileting transfers are difficult to complete within the available space.

An occupational therapist or appropriately qualified moving and handling professional can help assess the pupil’s needs and identify suitable options.

A dedicated toileting sling may be suitable for a pupil who can be safely supported by its design. A pupil who needs more extensive postural support may require another assessed solution. The choice should always be based on an individual assessment and confirmed hoist compatibility.

Not necessarily. Some in-situ slings are designed for continuous support while seated but are not suitable for toileting. Schools must check the exact model, its intended use and the pupil’s moving and handling plan.

Not all toileting slings provide sufficient trunk support for pupils with limited control. A more supportive design or a different transfer method may be needed following an individual assessment.

Staff should not substitute a sling simply because it appears to fit the hoist. Compatibility, sizing and suitability must be confirmed, and the alternative must be consistent with the pupil’s handling plan. If a safe, approved alternative is unavailable, staff should follow the school’s escalation procedure.

Staff should carry out the required pre-use checks and report defects. Formal inspections, maintenance and thorough examinations must follow the applicable requirements, the equipment manufacturer’s instructions and the school’s procedures. Relevant lifting equipment used to lift people generally requires a LOLER thorough examination at least every six months, unless a valid written scheme specifies otherwise.

How Medaco can support your SEND school

Medaco supplies moving and handling equipment for schools and care settings, helping organisations identify solutions that suit their environment and the needs of the people they support.

Whether you’re reviewing toileting slings, mobile hoists or wider moving and handling equipment, our team can help you explore suitable options and discuss your requirements.

Looking for toileting slings or moving and handling equipment for your SEND school? Contact Medaco to discuss your requirements and find out more about our equipment supply, servicing and installation services.

Visit Medaco to get in touch.