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Caerphilly-based PHS Group is up for a national award for its work raising awareness of male incontinence.

The Western Industrial Estate-based firm’s Dispose with Dignity campaign highlighted the stories of men who have experienced urinary incontinence after receiving life-saving prostate cancer treatment.

The hygiene company has been shortlisted in the UK-wide Purpose Awards, which are being held on Friday June 9.

It has been nominated in the best proof of authenticity category.

PHS worked with Cardiff-based agency ‘Cause as part of the campaign, as well as Prostate Cancer UK.

PHS’ Kelly Greenaway, who led the campaign, said: “We hope this campaign is a catalyst for change, because it is past time that this conversation takes place. 

“We’re truly passionate about breaking taboos and ensuring that men can talk openly about these issues while accessing the basic hygiene facilities they need to live with dignity.”

‘Cause founder Bethan Davies, who is originally from Maesycwmmer, said: “Working with PHS and Prostate Cancer UK, and the tens of prostate cancer survivors who were kind enough to share their story with us, has been the privilege of our careers.

“Incontinence is such a taboo issue, and those we highlighted in the campaign shared their stories with openness, good humour and authenticity – and that comes across in the campaign.”

As a part of the campaign, a research paper was developed, capturing data from more than 4,000 people about their experience of urinary incontinence.

The new figures suggest the prevalence of the condition may be vastly underestimated, with more than half of all men in the UK having experienced some symptoms.

It also highlighted the lack of facilities for men who are experiencing incontinence, including a lack of places for them to dispose of their pads.