Fundraiser to Tackle Hygiene Poverty

British commercial cleaning company Cleanology has announced its third annual fundraising event in support of grassroots charity The Hygiene Bank which is dedicated to redressing the ‘injustices’ associated with hygiene poverty.

Two previous editions of the event have raised approximately £40,000.

The 2023 fundraiser will take place on Tuesday, 3rd October in The Balcony Room at the majestic Globe Theatre, located in London’s Bankside.

Dominic Ponniah, Cleanology CEO of Cleanology, says: “Guests can look forward to an array of entertainment, including networking opportunities, refreshing drinks, delicious canapés, a lively auction, a raffle with amazing prizes, and a panoramic view of London and the River Thames from one of London’s most iconic venues.”

In October 2022, YouGov published the “Hygiene Poverty 2022” report. Commissioned by The Hygiene Bank, the study represented the first comprehensive, UK-wide mixed-methodology research into the scale and impact of hygiene poverty, revealing that over 3.1 million adults in the UK are living in Hygiene Poverty.

The Hygiene Bank defines hygiene poverty as “not being able to afford many of the everyday hygiene and personal grooming products most of us take for granted. The reality of low income is that it restricts people’s options, leaving us caught between being able to heat our homes, pay the rent, eat or be clean.” and the research confirmed that products like toothpaste, shampoo, and laundry detergent are the first to be sacrificed when budgets are tight.

Ruth Brock, CEO of The Hygiene Bank, says: “The Hygiene Bank is so grateful to Dominic Ponniah and Cleanology and all the sponsors of this event for their fantastic generosity… we work together to end hygiene poverty for good.”

Hygiene poverty is life-limiting and uniquely oppressive, impacting small social interactions and limiting access to education and work opportunities. The YouGov 2022 research found that:

• A third of those affected isolate themselves from friends and family.
• 16% of young people aged 16-24 have missed days at school.
• Around 12% have missed job interviews or days at work.
• Over 60% of people said hygiene poverty negatively impacts mental health.

This year’s sponsors – leading entities in the cleaning and FM sector – include Bridge Recruitment, Darwin Clayton, Futures Supplies, Liberty Hygiene, Evans Vanodine, and The Cheeky Panda. These sponsors acknowledge the growing issue of hygiene poverty across the UK.

Hygiene poverty is a significant social issue in many communities.

Chris Forbes, Co-Founder of The Cheeky Panda, says: “Hygiene poverty is a significant social issue in many communities. By sponsoring the event and providing products to The Hygiene Bank, Cheeky Panda is taking concrete action to combat this issue.”

Michelle Brightly, Managing Director of Bridge Recruitment, emphasises the importance of the campaign when she says: “Cleanology has made a huge effort to highlight The Hygiene Bank and we are thrilled to make a contribution to help such a cause.”

Jeannette McWilliams, UK National Account Manager of Evans Vanodine plc, adds: “As a manufacturer of cleaning and hygiene products, we realise the importance of staying clean. Evans is proud to support the vital work that The Hygiene Bank does to ensure everyone has access to the basics they deserve.”

Scott Marshall, CEO & Founder of Liberty Hygiene, is optimistic about the potential impact of the event, adding: “In 2023, there should not be anybody who is in hygiene poverty.

“We are all really excited about the event. If it’s anything like the last two, it will be an amazing night and lots of money will be raised.”

Ashley Hoadley, Director of Darwin Clayton, also welcomes the opportunity to co-sponsor the event, saying: “We are delighted to continue our sponsorship of the Cleanology Hygiene Bank Charity Evening in 2023… It will be another exciting evening and an opportunity to raise more funds needed to support the important work the Hygiene Bank is doing to help those living in poverty in the UK.”

Marc Kemp, Managing Director of Futures Supplies, says: “Hearing the difference The Hygiene Bank is making to individuals’ lives is moving and humbling…Keep up the great work!”

Tickets for the event, priced from £46 +VAT each, can be purchased on Eventbrite. All profits from the event will be donated to The Hygiene Bank. For more information and ticket bookings, visit the Green Home Festival website.