Continence is the ability to control your bladder and/or bowels.
Bladder and bowel problems are common in people of all ages, but many people are often too embarrassed to talk about them. This can make it difficult for young people to reach out for help if they’re struggling with bladder and bowel problems.
For some young people, leaking of urine during the day, wetting the bed at night, constipation (painful or infrequent pooing) soiling (leakage of poo) has been a problem for a long time. Sometimes this can make a person feel like there is nothing that can help them. But there is help available.
About 900 000 children and young people in the UK have problems with their bladder or bowel.
This video has some top tips for looking after your Bladder health - top tips from a continence nurse
There are things you can do to help with your continence: Bladder and bowel problems in teenagers.
If you want to feel like you need support, you can text a public health nurse on 07507 330025. This is a confidential text messaging service for young people, providing advice and support. Available Monday to Friday, 9am – 4.30pm, except bank holidays.
You can also attend a public health nurse drop-in. Public health nurses visit schools across Derbyshire and can support you with any aspects of your health and wellbeing. Find out more about the drop-ins and when the public health nurses visit your school or text us on 07507 330 025 to arrange an appointment.
​​​​If you are frequently wetting your bed at night. Have a look at these links:
There are several reasons for daytime incontinence. For more advice and information, look at these links:
Constipation and soiling can feel embarrassing, but it's important to get help if you need it. Watch this video to find out more:
If you've tried the advice above and have had no success, please contact your health visitor, public health nurse or GP for further support and advice.
Derbyshire Children’s Continence Service Level 1
Public health nurses will help you with basic continence advice and support you with first line advice to help with resolving your continence issues. Text a public health nurse on 07507 330025
Derbyshire Children’s Continence Service Level 2
We are a small nurse led community service working within Derby City and Derbyshire. We support children and young people 4 -18 years (19 years if in a special education school), with continence needs.
ERIC is a national charity for children and young people with continence needs.
Children's Continence Team
Alfreton Primary Care CentreChurch street
Alfreton
Derbyshire
DE55 7AH
Tel: 01773 546841