Tonight, the West End will be illuminated in yellow to show support for The Hygiene Bank as part of National Hygiene Week. The week aims to raise awareness of hygiene poverty and the vital work being done locally to support those most in need.

Across St Albans, it is estimated that more than 6,000 children are living in poverty. The Hygiene Bank team is working tirelessly to support these children, their families, as well as homeless individuals, women’s refuges, prison leavers, and others facing hardship.

Over the past six years, the charity has distributed an impressive 55 tonnes of toiletries across the community through a network of over 50 charity partners and local schools. These essential supplies help ensure that no one has to go without basic hygiene items.

To continue this vital work, residents are encouraged to donate new and unused toiletries at one of the eight donation points across the district. Collection boxes can be found at Boots, Budgens, Howdens Insurance, Nottingham Building Society, Café on the Corner, and Jade Pharmacy. All donations are carefully sorted and distributed to local people in need.

As the West End glows yellow tonight, it serves as a powerful reminder that small acts of kindness can have a lasting impact — helping restore dignity, confidence, and hope to those experiencing hygiene poverty.