Leander Webb, and Denise Locklin, who are the Specialist Lead Nurses for the Bedfordshire Continence Service, have spoken to us about their greener initiative – addressing this year’s theme of Our Nurses. Our Future. The economic power of care.
The Service – which provides treatment, advice and support for anybody 18+ with continence needs across Bedfordshire and Luton – came up with an idea to reduce the use of disposable pads and promote washable products.
A service user information guide was created by the team, including environmental concerns and additional information about washable products that are available. As such, this was sent to approximately 10,000 service users on their caseload.
Speaking about the initiative, Leander said: “On average, it takes up to 400-500 years to decompose a pad in landfill – contributing to air pollution.
“By providing patients with information and encouragement to consider washable incontinence products, we have empowered them to think about the environment.
Denise added: “We pride ourselves on thinking outside the box, and always look for ways to improve without compromising on service delivery and high standards of care.”
At the Trust Staff Awards in October 2023, the team was awarded the Green Initiative Award, and is now working to reduce letters sent by GPs by emailing where possible.
If you would like more information about the Bedfordshire Continence Service this #InternationalNursesDay, email continenceteam@nhs.net.