World Continence Week, running from June 23–29, 2025, aims to raise awareness of a health issue that affects millions of people but is still rarely discussed.
For many, it’s something quietly managed behind closed doors. But the impact it can have on someone’s daily life, confidence, and comfort in public spaces, including the workplace, is huge. This week presents an opportunity to open up the conversation and explore how we can all contribute to creating more supportive and inclusive environments.
What is incontinence?
Incontinence is the involuntary loss of bladder or bowel control. It can be mild or severe, occasional or ongoing, and is caused by a range of factors, from childbirth and ageing to certain medical conditions, surgery, or injury.
Despite its prevalence, many people feel embarrassed to discuss it or seek support. That means they often suffer in silence, limit their time in public, or avoid activities they once enjoyed, all because they’re worried about access to clean, private, and dignified hygiene facilities.
How does it affect people, and how does it differ between men and women?
Incontinence affects both men and women, but it shows up in different ways:
- Women are more likely to experience urinary incontinence, particularly after pregnancy, childbirth, or during menopause
- Men often deal with incontinence later in life, especially related to prostate problems or surgery
For both, the emotional impact can be just as tough as the physical symptoms, things like stress, anxiety, or feeling ashamed in public settings. And because men’s experiences with incontinence are even less talked about, many don’t realise they’re not alone, or that practical support is available.
What can be done to help people feel more supported?
One of the biggest ways we can make a difference is by offering the necessary facilities in the places people visit every day, for example, work, restaurants, shopping centres, healthcare settings, and more.
At NWR, we provide sanitary disposal units for both women’s and men’s washrooms. While these are commonly found in ladies’ toilets, we’re seeing more and more businesses introduce them in men’s washrooms too, particularly to support those managing incontinence or prostate-related issues.
Our units are discreet, hygienic, and professionally serviced on a schedule that suits your business. They’re a small addition that can make a big difference in helping people feel safe and supported when they’re out and about.
Potential impacts on businesses that do not provide adequate facilities
It’s not just about comfort, it’s also about compliance and responsibility.
In the UK, employers are required under the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 to provide suitable and sufficient toilet and washing facilities. That includes proper sanitary waste disposal, especially where people may have medical needs.
There’s also a duty under the Equality Act 2010 to make reasonable adjustments for those with health conditions or disabilities. If your facilities don’t meet the needs of your staff or customers, even unintentionally, it can lead to reputational damage, legal risks, and people feeling excluded from your space.
At the end of the day, providing clean, functional washrooms isn’t just a legal box to tick; it’s part of being a considerate, inclusive business.
Conclusion
Incontinence is more common than people realise, and yet it’s still a subject wrapped in stigma and silence. But with the right awareness, practical changes, and a little compassion, we can help people feel more comfortable, included, and respected.
For us, this isn’t just about installing a bin; it’s about giving people the freedom to move through the world with dignity.
If your business is looking for reliable, fully serviced sanitary disposal units for either the gents’ or ladies’ washroom, you can get a free quote on our website today.
Let’s make stronger hygiene facilities part of the solution, together.
