It's time to talk about continence

Incontinence is a condition that causes involuntary passing of urine and/or faeces (wee and poo). According to NHS England, bladder problems affect more than 14 million people in the UK (that's one in five of us), and roughly 6.5 million people have bowel problems.

And yet, it's rarely talked about.

You told us that living with bladder or bowel issues can be lonely and confusing, so we've brought your experiences together to shine a light on what needs to change. You told us better products, more awareness and empathy are needed.

Read our full report 

Your stories

People told us very honestly how continence issues affect their daily life, confidence and wellbeing. Their stories show both the challenges they face and the positive changes that are possible when they get the right support.

Examples of what people told us include:

"It all got a lot worse, and I was in chronic pain when sitting."

"It was horrendous."

"We need information about continence services."

"I was appalled by the only NHS continence pad provision."

On the positive side: 

"My quality of life is so much better now with the stoma after all it's only a bit of wee and we all do it. Stomas are life saving and life changing. Mine is."

One member of the public captured a feeling shared by many when they said:

“It is part of a natural process and it is important for people to talk about it.”

These personal stories lead directly into the wider picture of what continence care looks like in North Yorkshire.

What Healthwatch heard

Continence care is not just a clinical issue. It affects people of every age and background and can shape how independent and confident someone feels. People told us they often struggle to access information, find the right products and get the support they need.

Our findings show:

• People need clearer information on how to get help
• Continence products do not always meet individual needs
• The cost and quality of products vary
• Public facilities, including toilets and disposal options, are inconsistent across the county
• The emotional impact of continence issues is often overlooked
• Some people felt their dignity and needs were not always considered

North Yorkshire Council recognised that this work helps raise awareness and reduce stigma. They told us:

“Continence is an interesting area and one that, as the report says, tends to be stigmatised. This kind of good work can help break that down.”

These findings helped shape our recommendations.

Why we need to keep talking

Stigma stops people from asking for help. By talking about continence openly we can make it easier for people to get support and for services to understand what matters most.

Ashley Green, our Chief Executive, shared:

“It is part of a natural process and it is important for people to talk about it.

"Continence affects people of all ages. Support is there, but more is needed. Funding, awareness and resources need to go into this by Government and those who plan and provide services.”

This is why hearing from local people is so important. When people speak up services can improve.