It is not right that keeping clean should be a luxury or a privilege for anyone in our society. Hygiene poverty exists, closer to home than you think, and it is unjust. Those who don't have the means to access hygiene products can be held back from fully participating and contributing to society. It can lead to a crippling lack of confidence and leave those affected feeling isolated, excluded, shamed, bullied and humiliated. It impacts mental and physical health and reduces opportunities for education, training or employment. Ultimately, solving hygiene poverty is about restoring self-confidence and mental wellbeing so that they are able to overcome some of the barriers they face and take the necessary steps to move forward.

I hope that my steps will help others be able to take their steps.