Child-Help is committed to providing comprehensive continence management programmes for children with spina bifida, helping them live independent and dignified lives.
Many of these children experience limited bladder and bowel control due to their condition. Without proper support, they face not only health complications but also stigma and social exclusion.
Our programmes empower children and their families through education, training, and practical support, helping them overcome these challenges and improve their quality of life.
Children born with spina bifida often experience paralysis of the bladder, preventing them from fully emptying it on their own.
This leads to high bladder pressure, infections, kidney damage, and painful pressure sores.
Without proper treatment, it becomes almost impossible for affected children to live a healthy, carefree life.
To address these challenges, Child-Help provides an effective continence management programme built on two main components:
To ensure reliable care, Child-Help provides essential medical supplies such as catheters, oxybutynin, and materials for bowel washout directly in partner countries.
Our local teams coordinate distribution and make sure that even families in remote areas receive the support they need.
This vital assistance is made possible entirely through donations.
Education and training are at the heart of our programme.
We train parents, children, and local professionals on the safe use of materials and medication, and we provide hands-on guidance in continence management.
In our Houses of Hope, families can stay with their child before and after surgery to receive tailored training.
Often, within just a few days, children begin to experience life-changing results — they stay dry and clean, reducing the risk of infections and enabling them to return to everyday activities.
Child-Help works closely with support groups, medical professionals, and local organisations to make continence management part of everyday life.
We provide illustrated guides and posters with step-by-step instructions, especially for families who cannot read, ensuring that treatment is carried out safely and effectively even in low-resource settings.
Together with parent associations, we have developed a teacher’s brochure to raise awareness in schools about the specific needs of children with spina bifida. This helps teachers foster inclusion and understanding in the classroom.
Continence management not only improves physical health but also restores confidence and dignity.
Children can go to school, make friends, and participate fully in community life — free from shame and exclusion.
The change is visible after just a few days: dry, confident children returning to school and daily life with renewed joy and self-esteem.
Regular follow-ups and a growing network of trained professionals ensure long-term success and sustainable local care systems.
Our continence management programme is entirely funded through donations.
Every contribution helps a child gain access to vital medical care and materials, giving them the chance to live a life without limitations.
👉 Support our work and make a donation here.
