Five dedicated NHS cleaners have blown the whistle on what they're calling the most 'demeaning' cost-cutting measure yet - being instructed to make two-ply toilet paper feel like one-ply to save money.
The shocking revelation emerged from West Suffolk Hospital where cleaning staff were reportedly asked to implement the bizarre paper-stretching technique as part of wider austerity measures.
'It's humiliating' - Cleaners Speak Out
One cleaner, who wished to remain anonymous, told The Mirror: "We're already stretched thin, and now they want us stretching the toilet paper too. It's humiliating and shows how little respect we get."
The instructions allegedly came from facilities management as the NHS trust seeks to make significant savings. Another staff member added: "They think we won't notice, but we're professionals. This isn't just about paper - it's about dignity."
Broader Pattern of NHS Austerity
This incident isn't isolated. NHS trusts across the country are implementing increasingly creative cost-saving measures, including:
- Reducing cleaning supplies in critical areas
- Extending equipment replacement cycles
- Cutting back on staff amenities
- Reducing laundry services for non-clinical staff
A West Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust spokesperson acknowledged "financial challenges" but denied official policy on toilet paper manipulation.
Public and Union Backlash
Unison, the union representing NHS staff, has condemned the measure. A spokesperson stated: "When NHS trusts are reduced to counting toilet paper sheets, it's clear the funding crisis has hit rock bottom."
The story has sparked outrage on social media, with many expressing support for the cleaners and anger at the government's handling of NHS funding.
As one Twitter user commented: "If this is how they're treating the people who keep our hospitals clean, what does that say about patient care?"
