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Hygiene poverty reaching a tipping point in the UK, charity warns
Overview
A charity warns that hygiene poverty is reaching a tipping point, increasingly affecting working families and individuals who previously felt financially secure. According to a survey by The Hygiene Bank and In Kind Direct, 18% of UK adults or their households have experienced hygiene poverty in the last six months, with 41% of those affected experiencing it for the first time this year. The charity is urging people to donate essential items and funds during National Hygiene Week.
Key points
- The Hygiene Bank warns that hygiene poverty is at a tipping point and affecting previously financially secure people.
- Essential items in short supply include toothbrushes, toothpaste, shower gel, shampoo, sanitary pads, laundry detergent, and cleaning products.
- A survey by The Hygiene Bank and In Kind Direct indicates that 18% of UK adults, or someone in their household, experienced hygiene poverty in the past six months.
- Two in five people affected reported experiencing hygiene poverty for the first time this year.
- The charity is calling for donations of essential products or money ahead of the conclusion of National Hygiene Week on 11 October.