Having problems going to the toilet
Lots of people find it difficult to get to the toilet on time and to get on and off the toilet when they get there.
This page gives you some advice and tells you about what options there are to help. These includes buying equipment, using the NHS's continence service and using the disability service. Not only can we arrange equipment and services for you, but we can also advise you about the best way to help yourself.
What can you do?
It's quite common for people to have trouble getting to the toilet on time - It's called incontinence and lots of people suffer. If you have trouble, then you should contact your GP. Although it can be embarrassing, there are some simple solutions which may help you regain control. For example, for urinary incontinence your GP may recommend:
- cutting down how many caffeine drinks (tea and coffee) you have
- changing the amount you drink
- losing weight - if you are overweight
- exercises to strengthen your muscles
Your GP may also suggest different types of surgery or can refer you to the PCT's continence team.
Continence products
There are also lots of different types of pads and disposable underwear for men and women that soak up any accidents. The Disabled Living Centre can advise you about the best continence products for you.
For more information and support, you may want to visit InContact charity.
Out and about
You may need the toilet when you're out and about in the city and we've put together a list of the acccessible toilets that we know about. Levels of accessibility vary a lot, so check that you would be able to use them. Some accessible toilets need a special, RADAR key to open them - available for £3.45 from Crompton House and from Burrows House.
Getting on and off the toilet
Don't pull yourself up using your wash hand basin.
Some people find grab rails helpful and you can get them fitted so that you have something safe to pull yourself up with.
You can also get frames that surround your toilet.
A raised toilet seat increases the height of your toilet, making it easier to lower and raise yourself - you can use these alone or with grab rails
.
Many people find commodes can be really helpful - if you live in a two storey house and getting up and down the stairs is hard, or for nighttime.
All this equipment is available from mobility shops, high street stores, catalogues and from our equipment store. If you want advice about the best equipment then you should contact us.
What can we do?
When you contact us, we'll advise you about different pieces of equipment that may help you. We can also assess (find out about) all the things that you are finding difficult. We will ask you lots of questions and discuss with you what your options are and the best ways to help. At the end of the assessment, we’ll give you a summary of what we recommend. If it is clear you will need some personal assistance/services as well as equipment we can advise on this as well.
We can then arrange for you to get the equipment and the services, or if you prefer, we can talk to you about Direct Payments - where we give you the funds to buy in your own services.
Who else can help?
Helping Hands may be able to help with fitting grab rails for you
Disabled Living Services may offer you advice or help you choose the right equipment for you to buy.
Contacting us
Salford Disability Service
Burrows House
10 Priestley Road
Wardley Industrial Estate
M28 2LY
tel: 0161 607 1499
fax: 0161 607 1412
email: social.services@salford.gov.uk
minicom: 0161 608 4551
Text: 07970 13489
This page was last updated on 3 October 2009
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