Help at hand for childhood problem

But because the problem is perceived as embarrassing, many people do not talk about it, and most parents think they’re alone in trying to deal with it.

In fact, a recent DryNites survey revealed that 75 per cent of mums thought bed-wetting was an embarrassing condition, and almost four out of 10 parents whose children wet the bed, admitted not discussing it with others for fear of being seen as a bad parent, or having their child labelled because of it.

In addition, a new survey by the charity, ERIC (Education and Resources for Improving Childhood Continence), found that three-quarters of parents think bed-wetting has a substantial effect on childhood happiness, and half believe it also has a huge effect on a young person’s self-esteem.

Most think a child who wets the bed is very likely to be bullied as a result.

Jenny Perez, director of ERIC, says: “Bed-wetting can be very distressing for children and parents, but the scale of the problem remains hidden, partly because people find it embarrassing to talk about.

“Our research shows that only one in three affected families comes forward for help. But families are not alone. Things can be done to overcome or manage the problem.”

Studies have shown that the problem is more common in boys than girls, especially in the younger age-groups.

For information and help with bed-wetting, contact the ERIC helpline on 0845 370 8008, or visit www.eric.org.uk