A nationwide study has uncovered the lengths parents are going to in order to ensure their children have access to meals, with 4.2 million people living in ‘hygiene poverty’ in the UK
Adults living in hygiene poverty are sacrificing deodorant, toothpaste, or a hot shower to ensure their family can have a meal.
A poll of 500 people who struggle to afford everyday hygiene items revealed that 83% personally cut back on daily essentials to ensure there’s enough for their children through the school holidays.
Almost a quarter (24%) even skip meals to afford hygiene products, while others are going without new clothes (51%), heating (32%) and mouthwash (26%) to make ends meet.
Those who have had to forego hygiene products because of the cost found 33% regularly choose between buying toothpaste – or deodorant.
While 13% have gone days without brushing their teeth at all, with 11% only doing so when they are going into their workplace.
And seven per cent have been forced to use a single sanitary pad for the duration of an entire period, while 13% share personal hygiene products with others to save money.
The research was commissioned by Unilever and The Hygiene Bank, in partnership with Boots, to launch its product donation initiative in store when customers buy their own personal care products, for the fourth year running.
The charity recently revealed that 4.2 million UK adults are living in hygiene poverty, and since 2022, the cost of living and inflation crises have pushed an additional 1.1m people into the crisis – the equivalent of the population of Birmingham.
Chris Barron, spokesperson for Unilever Personal Care UKI, has highlighted a pressing social issue, stating: “It’s important to raise awareness of such an important and sadly, a growing issue.”
He also noted the often invisible struggles people face: “Many might not realise the severity of what people might be going through and the struggles they face on a daily basis.”
Emphasising the impact of community support, he added: “Making a small contribution this summer could have a huge impact for someone in hygiene poverty, and we are delighted we are able to support those in need through this initiative.”
The research uncovered that a staggering 75% of parents are worried about the extra costs during school holidays and affording essentials. Yet, 72% of these parents manage to shield their children from the reality of hygiene poverty, ensuring they never lack necessities.
The study further revealed that 44% of individuals dilute products like shampoo or shower gel to extend their use, and over half, at 51% , have resorted to requesting hygiene items as gifts due to financial constraints.
Despite the challenges, 55% of those struggling with hygiene affordability feel unable to discuss their situation openly. Moreover, 52% are unaware of any support services or initiatives that could assist them.
Consequently, a significant 85% of respondents agree that there is a critical need for increased awareness around the issue of hygiene poverty.
The study, conducted via OnePoll, uncovered that 58% of participants admitted their mental health was negatively affected due to living in hygiene poverty.
Ruth Brock, CEO of The Hygiene Bank, commented, “Working in communities up and down the country, we witness the real impact of hygiene poverty in every corner of the UK and the results from the study highlight the true state of play.”
She continued: “Everyone deserves to feel clean and having access to the basics shouldn’t be a luxury or a privilege for anyone in our society, yet many are living in poverty and cannot afford to stay clean.”
Unilever’s generous incentive will run until 27th August, allowing customers who buy products from Dove, Tresemme, Radox, Sure, Lynx, Simple, Vaseline and Sheamoisture at Boots both in-store and online, to aid Unilever in donating a minimum of 300,000 products to The Hygiene Bank.
WHAT THOSE SUFFERING HYGIENE POVERTY SACRIFICE TO PAY FOR HOUSEHOLD BILLS:
- Fresh attire
- Haircuts
- Social outings
- Entertainment
- Heating
- Mouthwash
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Personal care products
- Coffee or tea
- Shaving cream
- Mobile phone use
- House cleaning supplies
- Conditioner
- Dental floss
- Hot showers
- Medication or health supplements
- Over-the-counter medicines
- Deodorant
- Shampoo
- Toilet paper
- Internet access
- Dish soap
- Hand soap
- Laundry soap
- Toothpaste.
