Hygiene poverty UK crisis: The hidden struggle millions face
Millions face impossible choices between essentials like food, heating and hygiene
Annika Collins
May 22, 2024
A hidden crisis in the UK
It is shocking to learn that many people in the UK are still living in poverty. For those on low incomes, restricted finances often mean making impossible choices between heating their homes, paying rent, buying food, or purchasing essential hygiene products.
The hygiene poverty UK crisis affects millions and has serious consequences for physical health, mental wellbeing, and social inclusion. A recent study by The Hygiene Bank highlights just how widespread and damaging this issue has become.
What is hygiene poverty?
Hygiene poverty is the inability to afford basic yet essential hygiene and grooming products.
Many of us take for granted everyday routines such as brushing our teeth or hair, having access to sanitary products, or being able to wash our clothes and hair regularly. For others, these daily activities require painful compromises or improvisation.
Feeling clean should never be a luxury, yet for millions across the UK, it sadly is.
The scale of the hygiene poverty UK crisis
A recent study carried out by the charity The Hygiene Bank revealed that more than 4 million adults in the UK are thought to be experiencing hygiene poverty.
This lack of access to basic hygiene products can:
- Harm physical and mental health
- Reduce confidence and self-esteem
- Lead to stigma and social isolation
How you can help tackle hygiene poverty
The Hygiene Bank provides vital support across the UK, and there are several meaningful ways you can help:
Donate essential products
Donate new and unused hygiene and household cleaning products to your nearest drop-off point. Think about the items you use regularly, it’s likely someone else urgently needs them too. Further information on what products they collect is available on the website
Buy from community wish lists
If you’re unable to reach a drop-off point, you can purchase products online directly from local community wish lists.
Support local projects
Find your local lead project coordinator and offer support to an existing community project. If there isn’t one in your area, you can also explore how to start one.
Fundraise or donate
Help The Hygiene Bank continue providing essential hygiene products by fundraising or donating directly to the charity.
Reuse and recycling: Supporting communities responsibly
When donating hygiene products, it’s important that items are new, unused, and in-date. For other household items you no longer need, reusing or recycling them responsibly can also help reduce waste and support communities.
Why addressing hygiene poverty matters
Your support can ease the daily struggle of hygiene poverty and make life a little easier for millions of people in the UK. By contributing in any way you can, you are not just providing essential products, you are also:
- Restoring dignity and confidence
- Supporting physical and mental wellbeing
- Relieving pressure on individuals and families with low incomes
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this blog are those of the author, Annika Collins, and do not necessarily reflect the views of Recycle More, Valpak Limited, or any other organisation.