Inspired by the results of a survey conducted in 2024, Wiltshire Youth Councillors are calling on their communities to help tackle hygiene poverty by donating essential toiletry and sanitary items to support children and young people across the county.

This initiative follows the results of the Make Your Mark survey where over 31% of Wiltshire’s young people, aged 11 – 18, identified health and wellbeing as their top concern. In response, Wiltshire’s Youth Councillors have taken action by working with their schools and peers to collect hygiene products for Re:Fresh, a school-based project that provides toiletry and sanitary items to students in need.

Re:Fresh partners with schools across Wiltshire and Somerset, offering discreet access to hygiene packs through pastoral staff. These packs include everyday essentials such as shampoo, soap, toothbrushes, deodorant and sanitary towels.

So far, the Wiltshire Youth Council has donated 16 boxes of hygiene items, which will be distributed to young people in need across various settings, such as schools, hostels, and other community spaces.

Cllr Mel Jacob, Cabinet Member for Communities, said:  “This is a clear example of young people recognising a real issue and taking practical steps to support others. Our Wiltshire Youth Councillors work together to focus on what matters most to young people, and this project is a great example of that.

“It’s encouraging to see them supporting a charity like Re:Fresh, which helps students access basic hygiene items, things many of us take for granted. It’s also great to see local communities getting involved and showing support.

“By donating and raising awareness, our Youth Councillors are not only helping their peers but also shining a light on the wider issue of hygiene poverty. I want to thank them for their hard work, and everyone who contributed. Their efforts will have a real impact, and it’s rewarding to see their vision come to life.”

Jill Neighbour, Community Action Project Manager, said: “Thanks so much, these products will be of amazing help to supporting our wider community, including distributing these products out to schools and hostels where there are young people in need.”

To learn more about Re:Fresh, including how to donate or get involved, please visit https://westwiltsvineyard.com/re-fresh.