Our recent report shows that 4.2 million adults are currently experiencing hygiene poverty in the UK.

I know that I wouldn't be able to take on this challenge if I didn't have access to everyday basics like deodorant, shower gel, period products so much more that I need to do any kind of exercise - never mind a half marathon!

For so many people this is their reality. Hygiene poverty prevents people from going to school and work, taking part in PE or going to the gym, or socialising with friends and family.

The Hygiene Bank has grown from a belief that basic hygiene is not a privilege. It's not right that feeling clean should be a luxury for anyone in our society, yet many of us are having to make the choice between paying bills, buying food or keeping clean.

Grounded in the community, our local projects work with a range of community partners to identify and respond to the direct needs of those of us experiencing hygiene poverty and struggling to keep clean, through collecting and distributing donated products.