Earlier this year, the charity Guts UK launched ‘This Can’t Wait’ cards to help anyone that is affected by digestive conditions in the UK to get quicker access to toilets in public places.
What are ‘Can’t Wait’ cards?
Our ‘Can’t Wait’ cards can be shown to people in public spaces like shops, restaurants and entertainment venues, to let them know that you need urgent access to a toilet, without the need to provide an explanation about your condition. They’re credit-card sized, making it easy to slip them inside a wallet or purse and carry them around with you wherever you go. Although access is not guaranteed, the cards are widely accepted across the UK.
Who are they for?
Not every illness is visible and for some, knowing that you can get urgent access to nearby toilet facilities if you need them can help to ease feelings of worry. Our cards are for anyone with digestive conditions or symptoms who might need urgent access to a toilet. You can find a list of conditions that we can provide a free card for at: www.gutscharity.org,uk.
How were they designed?
Our ‘Can’t Wait’ cards were designed with help from Guts UK’s community of supporters. A small focus group, made up of people with different digestive conditions, came together to help us get them just right.
What do people think about them?
The cards have reached people far and wide across the UK and are already being put to the test. But don’t just take it from us. Ant, 34, has ulcerative colitis and a stoma. He told us:
‘The “This Can’t Wait” cards are a fantastic idea and a great campaign. Even with my stoma, there are times when my bag might leak or I need to get to a toilet to change, so I seriously can’t wait. This will help so many people and raise awareness for so many digestive conditions!’
Ben, 39, has Crohn’s disease and a stoma. He told us:
‘The “This Can’t Wait” cards are a fantastic tool for improving your self-confidence. When you have inflammatory bowel disease or a stoma, you can sometimes get caught short. Having the card to show in a shop or restaurant means that you have a better chance of getting the access you need, without having to face talking everything through.’
Where can I get one?
You can order a free card from the Guts UK website by searching ‘This Can’t Wait’ at www.gutscharity.org.uk. Alternatively, you can call us on 020 7486 0341 or email info@gutscharity.org,uk and we’ll send one out in the post.
How much does it cost?
The cards are free. It is important to us that the cards are for everyone affected by digestive conditions or symptoms and that they are accessible to anyone who needs one. However, as a small charity, we rely on the generosity of our supporters to help fund our vital work. We welcome anyone who is able to make a donation to do so on our website, listed to the right.