Challenges Facing omen In Southwark - W4WE

Hygiene Challenges Facing Women in Southwark and Across the UK
Hygiene poverty is a pressing issue in Southwark and across the UK, disproportionately affecting women, particularly those from low-income households. According to recent statistics, approximately 20% of women in Southwark live in low-income households, severely limiting their ability to afford essential hygiene products such as sanitary pads, tampons, and toiletries. Nationally, hygiene poverty has escalated, with 4.2 million adults in the UK, an increase of over 1 million since 2022, now struggling to maintain basic hygiene due to financial constraints.
Challenges and Impact:
Hygiene poverty has a profound impact on physical and mental health. The inability to afford hygiene products often leads to severe consequences, such as infections and dental problems, with 54% of those affected by hygiene poverty having not visited a dentist in the past year. For women, the situation is even more dire. Period poverty, where women cannot afford menstrual products, forces many to use inadequate substitutes like toilet paper or overuse sanitary products, which can cause health complications. Research from Plan International UK reveals that 40% of girls have had to use toilet roll because they couldn’t afford sanitary products, and nearly half have missed a day of school because of their period.
The rising cost of living exacerbates these challenges, making it difficult for women to prioritize hygiene when faced with choices between food, housing, and health. This often leads to social isolation, with many too embarrassed to seek help, further reinforcing the stigma associated with menstruation and personal hygiene.
Moreover, the impact of hygiene poverty is not limited to health. It also affects education and employment opportunities, as those experiencing it are more likely to avoid social interactions and public spaces, further entrenching them in a cycle of poverty.
Empirical Evidence and Resources:
- Plan International UK – Period Poverty Research: Extensive research on period poverty, highlighting its effects on girls and women across the UK. Plan International UK
- Southwark W4WE Hygiene Bank – National Charity for Hygiene Poverty: A charity that provides hygiene products to those in need, with detailed reports on the state of hygiene poverty in the UK. Southwark W4WE Hygiene Bank
- Southwark Council – Support for Low-Income Households: Resources and support available for low-income households in Southwark, including those in need of hygiene products. Southwark Council Support
- UK Government – Period Poverty Taskforce: Government initiatives and resources aimed at tackling period poverty in the UK. Period Poverty Taskforce
Conclusion:
Addressing the hygiene challenges faced by women in Southwark and across the UK requires a unified effort from government bodies, charities, and communities. By increasing awareness, providing necessary support, and advocating for systemic changes, we can ensure that all women have access to the hygiene products they need, thereby protecting their dignity, health, and overall well-being.

Southwark Council – Domestic Abuse Support
Southwark Council provides comprehensive support for those experiencing domestic abuse through the Southwark Domestic Abuse Service (SDAS), delivered by Refuge. This service offers a range of critical support measures, including Independent Gender-Based Violence Advocates (IGVAs) for survivors, specialist housing support, and a Sanctuary Scheme that enhances home security for victims who wish to remain in their own homes. Additionally, Refuge provides counseling services in partnership with Bede House, and a therapeutic program for children affected by domestic abuse. These services are designed to offer holistic support to ensure the safety and well-being of survivors.
For more details, visit Southwark Domestic Abuse Support (Southwark Council) (Southwark Council).
Women’s Aid – National Charity Supporting Women
Women’s Aid is a leading national charity working to end domestic abuse against women and children. It provides lifesaving services, including the 24-hour National Domestic Violence Helpline and live chat support. Women’s Aid also offers resources and advocacy to influence policy and ensure survivors’ needs are met at both local and national levels.
For more information, visit Women’s Aid.
The Fawcett Society – Gender Equality and Women’s Rights
The Fawcett Society is the UK’s leading charity campaigning for gender equality and women’s rights. They focus on issues such as the gender pay gap, women in politics, and representation in public life. The society conducts research, provides resources, and advocates for policy changes that promote equality and address systemic inequalities faced by women.
Explore more about their work at The Fawcett Society.
Southwark Law Centre – Legal Support
Southwark Law Centre offers free legal advice to Southwark residents, focusing on housing, employment, and welfare rights. They provide essential support for individuals facing legal challenges related to housing insecurity, discrimination, and employment disputes. Their services are particularly valuable for marginalized communities, ensuring that those who are most vulnerable have access to justice.
Find out more at Southwark Law Centre.
UK Government – Help for Households
The UK government offers various forms of support for low-income households, which include financial assistance, benefits, and guidance on managing household expenses. This support is crucial for families struggling with the rising cost of living, particularly in areas like Southwark, where economic disparities are significant.
Learn more at Help for Households.
Office for National Statistics (ONS) – Labour Market Statistics
The ONS provides detailed statistical data on employment, income, and living conditions in the UK, which are essential for understanding the economic challenges faced by communities like Southwark. The data highlights the economic disparities that exist, with a significant percentage of women in Southwark living in low-income households, exacerbating issues such as access to housing, healthcare, and basic necessities.
Access the latest statistics at ONS Labour Market Overview.
These resources offer critical support and information for women facing challenges in Southwark, providing pathways to safety, equality, and legal justice.

W4WE Membership Invitation

At W4WE, we are dedicated to empowering women through our various membership programs. Join us in making a difference by subscribing to one of our memberships that best fits your needs and passion.

Let’s get started

Choose your membership level to support our mission and gain access to exclusive resources and community benefits.

Sisterhood Membership

Be part of a supportive network that fosters personal growth and empowerment. Connect with like-minded women dedicated to making a change.

Join Sisterhood

Activist Membership

Take action and advocate for women’s rights. Get involved in our community outreach programs, events, and campaigns.

Join as an Activist

Community Membership

Help women overcome everyday challenges including access to hygiene products, education, mental health support, and more. Become a beacon of hope in your community.

Join the Community

We are here to support you. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us through our social media or website.

© 2024 W4WE. All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is: [email protected]

Want to change how you receive these emails? You can update your preferences or unsubscribe.

Disclaimer: You are receiving this email because you have shown interest in W4WE and its mission to empower women through hygiene banks and other services. If you no longer wish to receive our updates, you can unsubscribe at any time using the link provided in this email. We respect your privacy and will never share your personal information without your consent. For more details, please review our privacy policy on our website at www.w4we.org.uk.