Shailesh Vara MP has raised concerns about the provision of paediatric services provided by the NHS Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG). Research by the Paediatric Continence Forum (PCF) found that the CCG did not commission the four main paediatric continence services (for bedwetting, daytime wetting, toilet training and constipation/soiling). Additionally, the CCG does not have a dedicated paediatric continence advisor.

About one in ten children are affected by continence problems causing them great difficulties regarding family relationships, self-esteem issues and bullying. Paediatric continence issues can generally be solved in the community. However if they are not assessed and treated early on the result can be complications requiring costly secondary care.

Mr Vara said:

“Given the high number of children (one in ten) that suffer from continence issues, it is a matter of considerable concern to hear that our local CCG is inadequately equipped to treat the condition. The health and well-being of children should be paramount. The PCF have published a NICE accredited Paediatric Continence Commissioning Guide, about which no doubt the CCG is aware, and I very much hope they will be taking this into account when considering the Health Board’s future commissioning plans”