Can't Wait?

Staying With Toilets

While we’re on the subject of toilets, there are times when it’s difficult for anyone to wait but this can be a major problem if you have a bowel or bladder problem.

Whilst the RADAR scheme aims to make sure that toilets are available and usable for those that need them, there are plenty of places where there just aren’t the facilities.  Sometimes it’s possible to ask for the use of a toilet, in a shop or somewhere.  I know that I’ve done this with the kids and often received a friendly response.

For an adult though, it’s not so easy and often very embarrassing.  It’s not easy to ask, it’s worse having to explain why and in many cases there just isn’t the time.

Just Can’t Wait Card

In an effort to help those afflicted with bowel and/or bladder problems and who may need to use a toilet in a hurry, the Bladder and Bowel Foundation offer the “Just Can’t Wait” toilet card.

The idea is that you can discretely hand over the card.  It explains that the holder has a medical condition that requires the urgent use of a toilet.  Hopefully this will help you get the use of the facilities you need when you need them.

The Bladder and Bowel Foundation point out that the card does not guarantee access to a toilet, most places will do what they can to help.  They offer the card for free, just email them.  You’ll get the email link and a little more information on their dedicated web page here.

What’s Your Experience?

Have you used or been given one of these cards?  How useful or effective do you think they are?  Would you try to help if an otherwise healthy looking person presented you with a card like this one?  Let us know your views in the comments!

EDIT: 14/05/2010

Due to recent TV publicity, the Bladder and Bowel Foundation have been swamped with requests for their card.  Unfortunately this has stretched their resources so they are now forced to request a minimum £5 donation towards covering the cost of issuing cards.