Chris Elmore, MP for Ogmore, has welcomed a new beauty bank to Blaengarw which will work in partnership with Baobab Bach, Bridgend Foodbank and the Llanharan Pantry. As well as supporting residents, the new scheme will supply Safe Haven Maesteg so they can help Ukrainian refugees.

Many people will have heard of the rise of foodbanks and warm hubs. Places that provide food and warmth to those who are struggling with the cost-of-living crisis. Sadly, many foodbanks have a shortage of hygiene products and that’s where Beauty Banks come into their own.

They get donations of self-care and hygiene products into the hands of those in need via their partnerships with registered Foodbanks (both Trussell Trust Foodbanks and independent Foodbanks), domestic abuse charities, homeless shelters, NHS trusts and care leaver associations. We also work with schools to support children living in hygiene poverty. The Beauty Bank work with complete discretion to protect the well-being of any school child who needs our support.

Research by the Beauty Bank shows that 1 in 2 teachers say children isolate themselves because of oral hygiene issues. Moreover, a third of teachers have witnessed bullying due to a student’s oral hygiene issues.

Chris Elmore, MP for Ogmore, said:

 “The cost-of-living crisis has not eased. Every time residents go to the checkout; they find their weekly shop has increased. Those with mortgages are finding repayments are rocketing and many fear the thought of putting on the heating this winter. More people than ever before are in need of support.

I want to thank Beauty Bank for coming to our community to help those in need. By teaming up with Bridgend Foodbank, Baobab Bach and Llanharan Pantry they will ensure that everyone has the dignity of hygiene. I would encourage any one who can to donate to this excellent charity.”

Leo Pemberton, Development & Partnerships Manager (Beauty Banks), said:

“Beauty Banks is delighted to expand its reach across the Ogmore constituency, and we are grateful to Chris Elmore, MP for speedily connecting us with eligible organisations such as the wonderful Baobab Bach. Their community pantries provide a lifeline to those in need of basic food items, and we have established partnerships with them to ensure that essential toiletries and sanitary products can also be offered.”

For more information on Beauty Banks visit: https://www.beautybanks.org.uk/