It’s been the hottest year on record, with wild fires and temperatures tipping the balance, causing immense concern for our environment on a global scale. When it comes to our hydration and bladder health, it’s easy to think we’re drinking enough, but are you really? Do you monitor your fluid intake as much as you should, and do you take note of how you feel?
It’s so easy to ‘think’ we’re drinking enough. But healthcare professionals advice a minimum intake of 2 pints per day for a smaller person, and up to 5 for someone larger. Our fluid matrix is a basic measure of what you should be taking on board each day, and this includes tea, coffee and soft drinks. Instead of limiting our fluid intake, the advice is to maintain enough fluids to keep our bodies and our urinary systems in check, which can help support bladder health.
As ever, water is best. And your body makeup will affect how much water you actually need. In our article we dive into body composition and how much water you actually need, vs what the general advice says, and how you can listen to your body and respond properly.
When it comes to planning days out however, it can be tricky when you rely on a home routine or particular toileting needs. If you are one of the estimated 14 million people with a bladder condition or the 6.5 million people with a bowel condition in the UK, you will know that needing the toilet frequently can be an urgent requirement and you will often need to go at just a moment’s notice.
A ‘Lifeline’ To Those Who Need It
Over the past 40 years, we have been running a range of services all designed to make life easier for those suffering from bladder and bowel conditions. The first of these services was the relaunch of the Just Can’t Wait Card and importantly, making it free of charge for our community members. Since 207 the Just Can’t Wait Card has been available in digital format, which has helped so many people to make use of this important communication tool.
What is the Just Can’t Wait Card?
The Just Can’t Wait Card provides a simple way of explaining to others the holder needs to urgently use the toilet. The card can be used in shops, cafes and restaurants across the country to grant access to facilities which otherwise would be out of bounds. Many people describe the card as a ‘lifeline’ offering freedom to those whose life becomes limited due to their toileting needs.
Can I get a Just Can’t Wait Card?
The original Just Can’t Wait Card is still available as a digital pass, and as a traditional plastic card to those who need it.
How many Just Can’t Wait Card Holders are there?
With around 250,000 Bladder & Bowel Community Just Can’t Wait Card holders in the UK, we are proud that we are assisting to raise awareness of the fact that far more accessible toilets are needed across the UK, and continue to offer the plastic card to UK residents.
Does the Just Can’t Wait Card work? Can I actually get access to toilets?
Since its launch, the card has received hundreds of positive reviews from people who have used it and we are frequently told how we are providing a lifeline to those who suffer from bladder and bowel conditions. You can find out more via our independent reviews platform.
A higher level of support via Home Delivery
Our Home Delivery Service is provided in partnership with Bullen Healthcare, the only independent UK provider which can offer products from a wider range of healthcare suppliers. This makes them an attractive option for new ostomates, people new to self catheterisation and anyone dealing with wound care on a routine basis. Their expertise in Stoma care is a particular strength, and we are proud to be offering a number of Stoma Webinars during 2026 to support ostomates in our community.
Community members are able to access a service which takes care of appliance and prescription requirements, utilising a discreet delivery service and EPS options for England Residents. With patient care at the heart of the service, each customer is assigned a personal adviser, who will get to know their specific needs, and the prescriptions and appliances they require. It is then arranged to have these sent out every month, or as needed. A Rapid Response Team is on call 365 days a year to ensure members always have access to the items they need.
Who needs a Home Delivery Service?
Our home delivery service is suitable for patients living with a stoma, catheter or who manage wound care regularly. Due to the higher level of care required by these prescription products, we can offer a level of personalised support that can help you find the right care routine, without the fuss.
How do I know if I’m using the right product for me?
If you self-catheterise, you may wish to try a few different products to find out which one works for you. You can request samples which can help you decide from the comfort of your own home, and our team can advise when needed.
Where can I find out more?
You can visit Home Delivery page, and if you live with a stoma, you can join our Stoma Webinar in October 2026.
At the Bladder & Bowel Community, it is our aim to stop you from feeling isolated in your own home and governed by your need to use the toilet, and instead, assist you in having access to the freedom enjoyed by everyone else.
