Children as young as eight in Wales still not toilet trained

Eric, a children’s bowel and bladder charity, said it was concerned parents were being “shamed” for not having toilet trained their children.

“These knee-jerk reactions miss a crucial point – when things go wrong, there are far fewer opportunities now for parents to get help,” said Juliette Rayner, the charity’s chief executive.

“The knock-on effects of the pandemic and cuts to essential children’s services in recent years have contributed to this issue and, if not addressed soon, it could have serious implications for children’s health and education.

“Children affected by bowel and bladder issues need to be treated quickly, while the problems are still at an early stage, and before they become a lifelong burden.”

She said calls to the charity’s helpline had trebled in the past five years, and said it should not be left to charities and schools to pick up the pieces.

“It’s time to stop blaming parents, ensure that local services have adequate resources to support toilet training, and a bladder and bowel provision in place to help those who experience problems – before it’s too late.”

The charity’s website said, external it was “tantamount to abuse” to allow a child to sit in wet or soiled underwear.