World Continence Week

That this House recognises World Continence Week, from 21 to 27 June 2021, which aims to raise awareness of incontinence related issues; observes the devastating impact that incontinence can have on quality of life; further notes that an estimated 6 million people in the UK, on average over 9,000 in each parliamentary constituency, are affected by continence problems with many relying on urology appliances every day allowing them independence and avoiding repeated medical consultation; regrets that urinary tract infections remain one of the most frequent causes of unplanned hospital admissions requiring the commitment of major NHS resources; further notes that NICE considers intermittent self-catheterisation with single use catheters as the gold standard in urine drainage and for reducing the risk of infection; acknowledges the extent to which suppliers of continence products ensured continued supply to patients throughout the pandemic; and encourages the Government to ensure that urinary device development and innovation continue to be encouraged to improve patients’ quality of life and longevity, whilst further boosting the success of the important medical technology sector and its contribution to the economy.