It’s time for washroom dignity for all!

WASHROOMS ARE an essential part of any public or private space as they serve a basic human need. They are places where comfort and privacy are crucial, and yet not all washrooms are designed or equipped to provide all users with a dignified experience.

As a result of new technology, increased levels of knowledge and higher expectations of hygiene, the benchmark of quality is evolving and organisations would be wise to make sure the standard that they provide in their own washrooms keeps pace.

Public washrooms should be able to provide a positive and inclusive experience for all users, regardless of their age, gender or need. In recent years, there has been significant focus on female washrooms in relation to Period Poverty and Period Dignity in particular, to ensure that the right level of facilities are provided for those who menstruate. Such campaigning should naturally be lauded, but needs to go further to drive awareness of other areas where provision is still lacking, such as sanitary waste bins in male toilets. 

Male washroom needs

Many public facilities, as well as private businesses, provide access to period products for those who menstruate. However, there is often no equivalent sanitary waste provision in male washrooms.

In the UK, there are an estimated 14million people that suffer with bladder problems, and an estimated 6.5m adults that suffer with bowel problems. While incontinence is typically associated with women or older men, recent research from Initial Washroom Hygiene found that nearly two in five (39%) male respondents with the issue are aged between 18 and 34; a higher figure than those aged between 35-54 (26%) and even those aged over 55 (35%). 

Incontinence is a common problem amongst men, and can greatly impact their quality of life as they lose their ability to control bladder or bowel movements, or in some cases both. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including an enlarged prostate, nerve damage, weakened pelvic muscles, or certain medical conditions such as multiple sclerosis or diabetes. Regardless of the cause, incontinence can make washroom hygiene a challenge, as it can require frequent trips to the toilet, changes of sanitary pads or underwear, and this can in turn present a hygiene challenge if the right facilities are not available.

Inadequate facilities

Many public washrooms across the UK do not have sanitary waste bins in male washroom cubicles and yet this facility is vital for incontinence sufferers so that they can discreetly manage their condition when away from home. In fact, Initial Washroom Hygiene’s research shows that just a fifth (17%) of sufferers have access to dispose of sanitary waste in male washrooms in their offices. Three in ten (29%) have even been forced to carry a used incontinence pad in their bag or coat due to a lack of disposal facilities. These inadequate environments have had horrific impact on those living with incontinence; our research found that half of sufferers (50%) are too afraid to leave their homes and are unwilling to discuss their condition with close friends or family members.

The lack of sanitary waste bins in male washroom cubicles is not helping the long-standing taboo surrounding continence-related issues. Despite the significance and prevalence of incontinence in the UK, the stigma surrounding this issue is largely due to societal norms and expectations, which place a strong emphasis on masculinity and control. Sadly this can lead to feelings of shame for men who experience incontinence. But, at Initial Washroom Hygiene, we believe now is the time to end that taboo.

Stalls for all

Last year, we partnered with Bladder and Bowel UK to launch a campaign aimed at helping to break the taboo that surrounds male incontinence. The campaign, named Stalls For All, saw those who have experienced or currently experience incontinence share their stories about the challenges they face, and encourage others to speak more openly about their health. 

The campaign showed the reality facing men across the UK that is too often ignored. We believe that now is the time for businesses and local authorities to come together and urgently address those washroom facilities that are letting down incontinence sufferers.

In recent months, we have seen positive steps from forward-thinking businesses committed to taking the necessary steps in helping to ensure ‘washroom dignity’ for all washroom users, such as Saracens. 

We have also gone further in calling on the Government to legislate for the provision of  disposal facilities in all public washrooms, as we aim to spark a nationwide conversation surrounding washroom dignity for everyone.

Washroom dignity for all

These principles apply to all disenfranchised groups. Simply put, it is essential that washrooms are equipped with the right facilities and hygienic products that not only help to keep individuals healthy, but also help to prevent the spread of infections. We have invested in the development of new and innovative products and technologies to ensure hygiene and personal care are accessible in public and private washrooms. As well as providing sanitary waste bins, designed to ensure spacious and accessible facilities in all toilet cubicles, we have taken measures to create low-risk washrooms, ensuring dignity for all users. For example, products that improve air purification, no-touch solutions to reduce the transmission of bacteria, and socially-distanced hand drying facilities. 

The tools required to achieve the goal of washroom dignity for all are now out in the market, with more being developed all the time. It is now down to those businesses and authorities with washrooms on their premises to make use of these products, as washroom dignity is a right every human being deserves, and is essential for overall health and wellbeing. From having access to necessary hygiene products, to reducing stigma, washroom dignity for all is a topic that still requires greater attention. By speaking out about the prevalence of incontinence, and campaigning for greater access to necessary facilities, we can ensure that everyone has the resources they need to discreetly manage their health and hygiene. 

Jamie Woodhall is UK technical and innovations manager at Initial Washroom Hygiene.

For more information visit www.initial.co.uk/washroom-services/