BINS4Blokes is an important campaign that raises awareness about male incontinence and the needs of men and boys living with incontinence.

There is a perception that incontinence rarely affects men and boys, and that it is only older men who have incontinence. In fact, 36% of men with incontinence are under the age of 50.

By promoting the need for incontinence product disposal bins in male public toilets, the campaign focuses on the dignity, independence and respect for men and boys living with incontinence, making it easier for them to get out and about with greater confidence.

Awareness: many people are unaware that men and boys have incontinence and need access to disposal facilities.

Talking about incontinence: it can be uncomfortable for many of us to talk about incontinence, this can lead to inaction.

Factors that may cause incontinence in men and boys may include:

• Birth conditions that can affect the way the body functions
• Childhood behavioural conditions that affect bladder and bowel control due to difficulties in impulse regulation, communication and sensory processing
• Side effects of some medication like diuretics, heart medications and some pain medications
• Prostate conditions including their treatment

• Bowel and bladder cancer including their treatment
• Chronic conditions such as diabetes and heart disease
• Weight gain which can cause urinary stress incontinence, an overactive bladder or weak pelvic floor muscles
• Conditions that cause impaired mobility and cognition such as stroke, dementia and arthritis
• Medical conditions such as Multiple Sclerosis, spinal cord injuries and Parkinsons Disease
• Disabilities affecting intellectual, physical and mobility functions