NHS Incontinence Product Shortages Force Patients to Pay Out of Pocket

Millions of people across the United Kingdom living with incontinence are facing severe shortages of sanitary products as NHS trusts implement rationing measures that limit supplies. This has resulted in a pad gap, a situation where patients are forced to pay for essential incontinence products out of their own pockets.

The crisis was highlighted on April 6, 2026, in an open letter from a coalition of organizations, including the Royal College of Nursing, Prostate Cancer UK, and Bladder and Bowel UK.

Rationing and Supply Caps

Freedom of information data collected from 110 NHS trusts reveals that more than half, specifically 53%, have imposed caps on the availability of incontinence products.

These caps frequently fall short of clinical requirements. Based on research, healthcare professionals in the NHS typically expect to fit up to five pads per day for individuals managing incontinence.

However, the data indicates that among the trusts with restrictions, 34% limit patients to just three pads daily, while the remaining 66% allow a maximum of four pads per day.

Financial Impact on Patients

Approximately 14 million people across the UK experience incontinence. For many of these individuals, the lack of provided supplies creates profound financial strain.

Patients and their families are often compelled to use personal funds, including pensions or Personal Independence Payment (PIP) benefits, to purchase the necessary sanitary products. This diversion of funds frequently leaves them struggling to cover other basic necessities.

Policy Shifts and Procurement

The government is introducing value based procurement across the NHS. Under this framework, trusts are required to consider products that improve the quality of life for patients regardless of the cost.

The coalition of charities argues that this policy shift presents a once in a generation opportunity to improve health outcomes for those living with incontinence. They suggest that prioritizing quality of life through procurement could alleviate the current burdens placed on patients, carers, and NHS staff.