Hygiene products are the 'first to go' says charity

Hygiene products are usually the first to go says charity founder

A charity tackling hygiene poverty has opened its doors.

Productive, in Maidenhead, Berkshire, is looking to build up a bank of hygiene products to help people struggling to afford them.

According to a survey by charity organisation Kind Direct, more than nine-million adults in the UK are struggling to afford everyday hygiene products.

Productive founder Aisling Corr said the issue is often a precursor to other poverty.

She said if families are faced with the choice of putting food on the table or paying for hygiene products the latter is "likely the first to go".

Ms Corr explained that when they talk about "hygiene products" they mean "some of the basics like dental care, cleansing products, hair care but we are also talking about specific areas in relation to menstrual care".

"Other areas that are even less talked about are incontinence care, and a whole range of other care such as pregnancy, postpartum and nursing support.

"It has significant mental and physical health implications," she said.

The charity will use donations to create product kits with an assortment of essential toiletries and hygiene items.

It will then work in partnership with local providers across the Thames Valley to get them to those in need.

Ms Corr said: "There are still barriers for people who want to reach out as there is a social stigma and embarrassment."

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