ERIC is the only charity dedicated to the bowel and bladder health of all children and teenagers in the UK. Their vision is that “every child and teenager with a bowel or bladder condition can access support and live free from embarrassment, shame, isolation and fear”.
Bowel and bladder problems have perhaps more impact than almost any other medical condition on children’s self esteem, education and social relationships, and effective treatment can change children’s lives. The stress that comes with dealing with a child’s wetting or soiling problem can be considerable for families too. Disrupted sleep, constant washing of clothing or bedding and a reluctance to leave the house can place a heavy burden on family life. We hear every day from parents struggling to cope with the consequences of their child’s condition.
Most bowel and bladder problems are avoidable and treatable, yet it’s estimated that only 11% of those affected ask for help. In England alone, there are 15,000 hospital admissions for paediatric cases of chronic constipation and urinary tract infections (UTIs) each year. 80% of these could be avoided if the problems were spotted early and dealt with properly, according to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).
If you need help or advice to with your child’s bowel or bladder visit ERIC’s website here or call the free helpline 0808 169 9949