Cost of living crisis expected to see 2.4m turn to charities for basic essentials

Rising costs and financial uncertainty are set to see surge in people turn to charities and community groups for household essentials including toilet roll, nappies, toothpaste and sanitary towels, according to latest research.

It is estimated that 2.4m will turn to charities, food banks and community groups to access everyday items, including shampoo, shower gel, washing up liquid and deodorant.

The estimate has been made by charity In Kind Direct, which distributes household essentials, and is based on a survey of more than 2,000 people carried out in August.

This revealed how the cost-of-living crisis is impacting on people’s lives. It found that more than a third (34%) will not turn on their heating this winter to save money, even when its cold outside.

More than eight million are expected to go without a hygiene product this winter and three quarters (76%) taking action to save money this winter, including 54% using clothes or blankets to keep warm. Around two in five will be cutting back on their food spending.

In Kind Direct has revealed that it has distributed nearly 300,000 toilet rolls, 20,000 tubes of toothpaste and more than 25,000 shower products this October - four times as many when compared to the same month last year.

“This staggering increase is a harsh reality of the detrimental effects that the cost-of-living crisis is having on individuals and families in the UK,” said the charity.

In Kind Direct interim chief executive Paul Buchanan added: “Due to the cost-of-living crisis, we have seen unprecedented demand for these products.

“We are appealing for personal hygiene products such as toilet roll, washing liquid, deodorant, toothpaste, shampoo and period products. In addition to warm clothing, blankets, hats and gloves, children’s gifts, books and toys, to support people over the winter months. No one should have to choose between warmth, hygiene or food this winter.’’

Last month In Kind Direct reported a surge in demand and fears around rising costs among its network of charities.

More than eight in ten of its network are reporting an increase in demand since January, while more than a third say their finding has fallen.