Each month we meet key stakeholders and business leaders in the social care sector. This month we meet Helen Seymour, Commercial Director UK and Ireland, Ontex
With a background in nursing, Helen has spent over 20 years collaborating with NHS Trusts and care homes. She now works with Ontex—a global leader in continence care for more than 40 years—supporting professionals to enhance residents’ quality of life and preserve their dignity.
Ontex has been a leader in incontinence care for over 40 years. What drives the company’s commitment to supporting healthcare professionals in care homes?
As a company, we are wholly focused on the dignity and quality of life of the people using our products. We understand that part of delivering this is supporting healthcare professionals with the right tools, knowledge, and confidence. In the UK, we have a large field team—many of whom have trained as nurses or caregivers—so we really understand the difference it makes when professionals are empowered through tailored training and reliable products. Our commitment is simple: to do the right thing and make a lasting, positive difference.
How does Ontex ensure its products meet high standards and enhance quality of life?
We combine rigorous quality control with ongoing research to ensure that our products meet the real-world needs of care settings. For example, we’re investing €40 million into our Buggenhout Center of Excellence to continue developing solutions that are not only effective but also tailored to individual needs. All of our incontinence products are dermatologically tested and designed for comfort, ease of use, and discretion. By focusing on performance and resident well-being, we help improve day-to-day quality of life.
How do Ontex’s training programs support caregivers in maintaining dignity and comfort for residents?
Our in-person and online support is something we’re incredibly proud of—and we’re pleased to offer it completely free of charge to those using our products. These programs are designed to help healthcare professionals expand their knowledge of best practice in continence care. Whether it’s through interactive online modules or hands-on workshops, we aim to equip caregivers with the skills they need to manage incontinence sensitively, promote dignity, and ultimately raise standards of care.
The Ontex Academy offers over 12 RCN-accredited modules. How does this support professional development?
We know just how vital good continence care is, and the Ontex Academy is designed to support professionals with bite-sized, accessible training. All courses are developed by our internal experts, accredited by the Royal College of Nursing (RCN), and entirely free to healthcare professionals. We firmly believe that access to high-quality learning shouldn’t be restricted.
What role does Ontex play in shaping best practices and raising awareness in the UK?
We work closely with healthcare professionals, care settings, and industry organisations such as the Association for Continence Professionals (ACP) to help improve continence care standards. We host regular roundtables, publish insight reports, attend key events like the National Care Awards, and support organisations like Care England. We’re passionate about being part of the conversation and using our platform to raise awareness—whether that’s through sponsorship, interviews, webinars, or podcasts.
How is Ontex innovating to further improve continence care?
Innovation is central to our approach. We recently launched Orizon SMART—a rechargeable sensor that attaches to continence products and notifies caregivers when a product requires changing. In trials, it improved resident comfort and sleep, reduced unnecessary clothing and bedding changes, and helped cut costs on product use.
How does Ontex use caregiver and resident feedback to refine its approach?
We pride ourselves on our close relationships with customers. Through regular feedback sessions, trials, and partnerships with care homes and hospitals, we gather insights that guide both product development and training. Listening and evolving is key to improving care.
Image depicts Helen Seymour, Commercial Director UK and Ireland, Ontex