Hygiene Poverty

An unspoken poverty affecting many

The NHS is currently facing its greatest pressure in 75 years. Our recent report, Nourish to Flourish: How Food Boosts Mental, Physical and Community Health, shows that many of these pressures stem from poor diets, often caused by persistent food poverty in Britain. While food poverty is a recognised issue, there is another hidden kind of poverty that severely impacts physical and mental health—hygiene poverty.

The Hygiene Bank defines the term as “not being able to afford many of the everyday hygiene and personal grooming products most of us take for granted.” This means people often must choose between buying household cleaning products or toiletries, such as shampoo, or paying for essentials like food and bills.

Hygiene poverty currently affects more than 4 million adults in the UK – 8% of the total population. 

Do you know the impact hygiene poverty can have on people’s health?

Hygiene poverty, like food poverty, affects people’s health:

– Half of those affected suffer from anxiety or depression.

– Most people reduce social interactions with family and friends, increasing their risk of loneliness and mental health issues.

– Many people feel ashamed or embarrassed due to their inability to afford hygiene products.

– One in three is affected by physical health issues, such as fungal infections and dental problems.

The stigma surrounding this issue stops many people from seeking help. Nearly half of those affected feel too embarrassed to ask for assistance when they need it. That’s why community models like pantries and co-ops, which offer both food and hygiene products, are vital. These models don’t require referrals and are self-policed, helping reduce the stigma associated with hygiene poverty.

How City Harvest Helps Tackle Hygiene Poverty

More importantly, help must be accessible, and that’s where City Harvest’s model is crucial. City Harvest’s food deliveries allow charities to free up resources for services that tackle hygiene poverty and its effects. In City Harvest’s research with 118 charity partners:

– More than 1 in 10 charities were able to provide shower and laundry facilities.

– Nearly a quarter provided sanitary products.

– Around 10% of charities were able to offer medical and dental care.

– Almost 40% of charities provided mental health assistance.

Long-Term Solutions to Eradicate Hygiene Poverty

Ending hygiene poverty requires long-term solutions. Based on feedback from our charity partners, we recommend three immediate actions for the government and the third sector:

1. Affordable Housing: Hygiene poverty forces people to choose between rent and hygiene products. Housing support needs to increase, and rents should be regulated to remain affordable.
2. Community Consultations: Local authorities and government departments must understand the needs of affected people when designing policies.
3. Government Support: People cannot afford essentials when their income is insufficient. The government should reduce costs by lowering VAT on sanitary products and other basic necessities.