07 August 2023
Incontinence pad bins have been put in place in all Government-maintained male public toilets in Jersey, to support Islanders needing to dispose of pads when away from home.
Prostate cancer is among the conditions which can lead to urinary incontinence in men.
In the UK, the issue has been highlighted by a Boys Need Bins campaign, led by prostate cancer and bladder health charities. It was brought to the attention of the Infrastructure and Environment department earlier this year.
The new sanitary bins have been put in one dedicated cubicle at each of the 38 public toilet blocks in the Island.
The Minister for Infrastructure, Deputy Tom Binet, said: "Incontinence can be caused by prostate cancer treatment, and at these difficult times in life we don't want to be causing further anxiety over how to dispose of used pads when out and about. This is a simple step that will hopefully make a big difference to those affected.
"The Infrastructure Property and Ops and Transport teams have worked closely together to ensure there's a dedicated cubicle with a sanitary bin in each of our male public toilets. Signage has been posted on the relevant cubicle doors to show the facilities are available.
“I would like to say thank you to the parishes who have already done the
same. I'd particularly like to thank Deputy Raluca Kovacs for raising this issue with the department and driving it forward. I'm pleased we've been able to act to ensure there are appropriate facilities."
Head of Estates and Property Maintenance, Phil Dodd, added: "We have been able to deliver a great initiative in a short period of time to improve the facilities for Islanders who need them most."
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