here’s how you can help struggling families

As children return to school, many families in the UK are struggling to afford basic dental hygiene products, with toothbrushes and toothpaste becoming unaffordable luxuries. A report by The Hygiene Bank highlights that 65% of parents facing hygiene poverty have had to choose between purchasing hygiene products for themselves or their children, leading to a decline in children's dental health. Nearly a quarter of parents reported worsening dental hygiene among their children over the past year, which can result in serious health issues and social challenges, including bullying and isolation at school. The mental and physical toll of hygiene poverty is significant, with individuals experiencing embarrassment and shame due to their inability to afford basic toiletries. This situation can lead to increased stress, anxiety, and depression, as families prioritize their children's needs over their own. Many parents express feelings of inadequacy and guilt for not being able to provide essential items for their children. In response to this growing crisis, Boots has initiated the Brush with Boots campaign, donating 175,000 toothbrushes and tubes of toothpaste to The Hygiene Bank. This initiative aims to support families affected by hygiene poverty and improve access to dental care products. Additionally, Boots has established donation points in over 500 stores, encouraging customers to contribute dental hygiene items. The collaboration between Boots and The Hygiene Bank, which began in 2019, seeks to combat hygiene poverty and its detrimental effects on health and well-being. By raising awareness and providing essential products, they aim to alleviate the struggles faced by families and promote better dental hygiene practices among children.