Help with daily living

Using the toilet and continence

If you have mobility problems or continence issues going to the toilet can be difficult. There are a range of solutions to help you, and some of these are fairly low cost and easy to put in place.

Continence

NHS Northamptonshire Continence Advisory Service (NCAS) is a nurse‑led team providing assessment, treatment and support for adults with bladder or bowel problems that affect daily life.

Equipment and adaptations

Take a tour of our Virtual House to find equipment available to help make using the toilet easier. This can range from a simple, low-cost option like a grab rail on the wall or a raised toilet seat, to a toilet frame or a commode.

Falls

The Falls Prevention team can provide an assessment to help support you if you are concerned with falling or have had a recent history of falling.

Personal alarms

Pendant alarms and monitors can be a simple way to make living at home safer. The button on the pendant alarm can be pushed when you fall or are unable to get to the telephone, and the alarm can alert a relative, a carer or a 24 hour call centre.

Personal care

Care at home such as a personal assistant or paid carer can support help you use the toilet. Support can be flexible and tailored to your needs, whether it’s occasional help or regular assistance.

Toilets

• The Great British Toilet Map locates public toilets, including accessible facilities, without needing to be a customer.
• RADAR National Key Scheme provide RADAR key's which unlock certain accessible toilets and are intended for people who may need urgent access to a toilet.
• Changing places facilities offer extra space and specialist equipment for people with profound and multiple learning disabilities or significant physical impairments.

Last updated 01 June 2026