Lewis Moody MBE has joined the ‘Stalls for All’ campaign, which aims to break the long-held taboo that surrounds continence-related issues. Launched by Initial Washroom Hygiene and charity Bladder & Bowel UK, the campaign is working to deliver ‘washroom dignity’ for everyone regardless of age, gender or need, by ensuring that they have access to the washroom facilities they require.
An estimated 14 million people in the UK suffer with bladder problems and an estimated 6.5 million adults suffer with bowel problems. Whilst incontinence is typically associated with women or older men, research from Initial Washroom Hygiene has found that nearly two in five (39%) male respondents with the issue are in fact aged between 18-34, a higher figure than those aged 55+ (35%), and aged 35-54 (26%). Furthermore, half of sufferers (50%) are even afraid to leave their homes and are unwilling to discuss their condition with close friends or family.
As Brits head into pubs, rugby clubs and other venues to watch the Rugby Union Autumn Internationals, Moody is encouraging men to speak more openly about their health. Having suffered from ulcerative colitis throughout his playing career, the former England Rugby Union captain is all too familiar with the symptoms of male incontinence – in his case bowel incontinence – and has campaigned to break the stigma around the subject.
