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Cleaning and hygiene sector firms have been thanked for supporting The Hygiene Bank – and more industry businesses are being encouraged to give their support.
The call by the British Cleaning Council (BCC) follows a recent survey carried out by the charity which found that more than three million people in the UK are thought to be experiencing hygiene poverty.
The survey published by The Hygiene Bank found that 24 per cent of people thought to be experiencing hygiene poverty were regularly struggling to wash their clothes and 29 per cent had to prioritise food instead of hygiene products.
Hygiene poverty means not being able to afford the everyday personal hygiene products many of us take for granted. It can have a negative impact on people’s physical and mental health, as well as their social and economic wellbeing.
Research in recent years has highlighted the issue, with school pupils reported to be more likely to have dirty uniforms and PE kits, unwashed hair and unclean teeth and other research showing millions of adults are unable to afford essential hygiene products.
The Hygiene Bank was founded in 2018 to address the issue, by directing donations of essential hygiene products to organisations supporting those in poverty.
The donations consist mainly of new, unused, in-date personal care and household cleaning essentials.
The charity will accept a range of products such as, for example, shampoo, conditioner, face and body wash, deodorant, laundry detergent, sponges, cloths, household cleaning items, loo roll, tissues, cleaning wipes, washing up liquid, toilet cleaner, polish and sprays.
Cleaning and hygiene sector firms have been fundraising to support The Hygiene Bank and also donating products.
BCC Chair Delia Cannings said: “With the cost of living crisis continuing to put pressure on local communities, families across the country are struggling with one of the most basic human requirements – maintaining cleanliness and good hygiene.
“This is an area where the cleaning and hygiene sector can make a major difference. If you represent a cleaning and hygiene business producing any of the products which are so badly needed, please think about donating what you can. I’d like to thank all the sector businesses which have already lent their support to this very worthy cause.”
Immediate Past BCC Chairman Jim Melvin added: “It is a scandal that hygiene poverty is affecting so many in the UK, including families and children.
“I want to highlight and truly thank the companies that are supporting The Hygiene Bank. When asked they responded immediately and they should be applauded accordingly. They are an example to all and I hope many more businesses in our sector will help.”
To donate products and give further support, visit www.thehygienebank.com
