Morrisons has become the first supermarket chain to implement a new toilet policy across all of its hundreds of stores nationwide. The retail giant, which operates just under 500 supermarkets throughout the country, confirmed the nationwide rollout of male sanitary bins in customer facilities across every location on May 20.
In doing so, it stated it has become the first supermarket to comply with "The Bog Standard" guidelines, created by phs Group and Prostate Cancer UK to inform organisations on delivering vital support for men experiencing incontinence, which affects many who have undergone life-saving prostate cancer treatment.
Customer feedback drove the rollout
Morrisons says it pursued the rollout following customer feedback, "alongside its broader commitment to continuously improving accessibility and inclusive facilities for all customers".
This followed the supermarket's earlier introduction of stoma-friendly toilets across all its stores in March this year, along with new NHS messaging on its own-brand bath and shower products to help more people in identifying potential cancer symptoms at the earliest opportunity - both of which were described as supermarket firsts.
Before that, the retailer also introduced Sensory Support Boxes developed in partnership with the National Autistic Society in stores to enhance the shopping experience of individuals with autism.
Prostate cancer statistics
One in eight men will develop prostate cancer, with that risk increasing to one in four for Black men, according to Morrisons. However, when detected early, it can be curable, making early diagnosis crucial. Up to 60% of men undergoing a radical prostatectomy may experience urinary incontinence, the supermarket highlighted.
Yet Morrisons noted in its announcement that appropriate disposal facilities in public male toilets remain scarce, preventing men from participating in routine activities. The initiative doesn't extend to its convenience stores, as not all Morrisons Dailys have toilet facilities.
Company and charity responses
David Scott, Corporate Affairs Director at the supermarket, 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. Providing appropriate facilities across all Morrisons stores is an important step in helping customers feel more confident and supported when out and about, while also improving access to suitable facilities nationwide."
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. Morrisons is making its stores more welcoming and accessible for every employee/customer and we 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. This is the only way we can ensure men will have access to a male sanitary bin if they're using toilets in public spaces."
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) have been approached for comment.
