Morrisons has rolled out male sanitary bins in customer toilets across all of its 500 stores, making it the first UK supermarket to comply with The Bog Standard guidelines. The guidelines, created by phs Group and Prostate Cancer UK, aim to help organisations provide vital support for men experiencing incontinence, a common side effect of prostate cancer treatment.
Customer Feedback Drives Nationwide Rollout
The rollout, confirmed in May, follows customer feedback and aligns with Morrisons' commitment to improving accessibility and inclusive facilities. David Scott, Corporate Affairs Director at Morrisons, said: “We are proud to be the first supermarket to meet The Bog Standard guidelines in every one of our stores. By listening to our customers and working closely with both organisations, we recognise the challenges many men face when living with incontinence.”
Addressing a Critical Need
Prostate cancer affects one in eight men, with the risk doubling to one in four for Black men. After a radical prostatectomy, more than 60% of men report urinary incontinence. The initiative builds on the 'Dispose with Dignity' campaign by phs Group and Prostate Cancer UK, which seeks to improve access to sanitary disposal facilities for men.
Nick Ridgman, Head of Support Services at Prostate Cancer UK, said: “Many men need sanitary bins so they can dispose of their used pads discreetly and hygienically – but often these bins are nowhere to be found in men's loos. It's causing men stress and shame and keeping them from going out, heading to work or even doing the things they love.”
Ridgman added: “Morrisons is making its stores more welcoming and accessible for every employee/customer and hope other companies will follow. We wholeheartedly support the Dispose with Dignity initiative and hope to see the UK Government supporting our call to change HSE guidance.”
