Health services for children and young people

All health visitors, school nurses, and GPs in Waltham Forest have been trained to support the development of children’s toileting skills. 

Sometimes toileting, and staying dry at night, can be a real challenge for children for several reasons, including: 

• they don’t have the words to tell you what they are feeling as yet
• difficulties in establishing a routine
• they have not learned the muscle control they need as yet
• they have a selective diet and may become constipated as a result, affecting their ability to establish a toileting routine 

All of the above may be affected by the food they eat. Exercise and making time for toileting are all important, too. You can discuss this with your health visitor or school nurse.  

A health visitor or school nurse may suggest you visit your GP to rule out any other physical needs your child may have. Your GP may check your child’s growth and urine, and also look at their back to rule out any physical reasons for a delay. 

If your child has special education needs, mastering toileting may take longer. Your child might also need structured teaching and support to help them learn. 

If your child is starting school and is not yet toilet-trained, or has a medical condition, speak to the school SENCO. 

You can find help and advice on toileting, or potty training, for example, on the ERIC website, the children’s bowel and bladder charity. ERIC also has a free helpline for parents and professionals. 

We advise that you use the ERIC website and resources before asking for a referral to the Waltham Forest continence advisory service. 

Continence products for children and adults 

If your child is late to develop toileting skills due to their physical and special educational needs, you will be entitled to support with continence products such as nappies.  

If you are over 18 years old and continue to need continence support, you will be referred to the adult continence team. They work with young people aged 18 years and over. The service is available to people registered with a Waltham Forest GP.