What we do
The children’s continence clinic is for children and young people who have continued difficulties with continence issues such as but not limited to; constipation, day time wetting, night time wetting, who have already had support from the 0-19 team but need further assessment.
The children’s continence care pathway has recently been reviewed to enable quicker access to appropriate treatments, advice and support.
Stage 1 - In the first instance all children should have access to The ERIC website, a school nurse, health visitor or GP who will give basic advice and guidance on toileting problems. Please also see our leaflets at the bottom of the page for more information and guidance.
Stage 2 - If needed, a referral can then be made to see a specialised continence champion advisor, for any continuing difficulties.
Stage 3 - If at this stage it is then felt that a more specialist service is needed, then a referral will be made to the children’s continence clinic. These clinics are held in a variety of locations. If your child requires this level of support their referral will be allocated to the most appropriate clinician according to their symptoms and medical history.
The children’s continence clinic will see:
Children who are registered with a GP in Bedford, West Mid Beds or Ivel Valley with constipation, day/night time wetting which is not age appropriate: after stages 1 & 2 have been completed.
Children aged 4 years and above with additional needs who are struggling with toilet training can be referred for further assessment. They will need to be registered at a GP in Bedfordshire or Luton. If they are struggling with constipation and/or soiling this must be treated prior to a referral being made.
To find out more about booking your appointment using our Choose & Book system, check out the video below:
Where our service is based
Union Street Clinic
Union Street
Bedford
MK40 2SF
How to contact our service
A 24 hour answer phone service is available on the below numbers:
Bowel and bladder: 01234 315847
Special needs continence: 0300 790 6894
Or you may prefer to email ccs.beds.childrens.cct@nhs.net
Additional links and information
The simple measures are the most effective treatment for continence issues, and are measures you can begin implementing now. Please take a look at our leaflets below for more information.
Please take time to access the following link for details of these measures and for further advice and support: www.eric.org.co.uk
ERIC have also put together two fantastic resources which you can view for free below:
When it's Time to Go booklet
Sensory Needs & Toileting