This National Volunteers’ Week, we’re taking a moment to celebrate the brilliant people who power The Hygiene Bank: our volunteers. Across the UK, our network of dedicated project coordinators and volunteers give their time, energy and heart to help us end hygiene poverty in their local communities. They juggle fundraising, collecting and distributing donations, coordinating local partners, and raising awareness – often while balancing work, families and other commitments. They are simply, amazing.
Below, we’re shining a light on just a few of the inspiring individuals and teams making a difference through their local projects. Thank you to each and every one of you – we couldn’t do this without you.
Sarah Allen – THB Hampton
Project Coordinator since March 2019
Sarah works tirelessly to raise funding and awareness for The Hygiene Bank Hampton. Along with her team of volunteers, she organises a range of events throughout the year to keep hygiene poverty front of mind in the local community. Most recently, they hosted a quiz night raising £1,165, followed closely by a plant sale which brought in £1,200. So much of this work happens behind the scenes, all under Sarah’s fantastic leadership.
📸 See more on Instagram: @thbhampton
Debby Hollingsworth & Ian Grant – THB Milton Keynes
Project started November 2020
Official Project Coordinator Ian works closely with Debby to run a highly effective and smooth project. Together, they’ve developed an operating model that includes ‘domestic packs’, ‘family packs’, ‘individual packs’ and ‘emergency kits’, all distributed through a referral system. This approach helps their community partners have more meaningful conversations with service users about their wellbeing. Their project primarily supports family centres and foodbanks.
📸 Follow their work: @thbmiltonkeynes
Debra Fretwell & Mark Jones – THB Abergele
Co-Coordinators since August 2024
Debra and Mark bring incredible energy and enthusiasm to their work tackling hygiene poverty in North Wales. Since launching the Abergele project, they’ve gone from strength to strength – attending coffee mornings, hosting stalls at local fairs, and recruiting volunteers at community events. Their commitment to the cause is unwavering.
📸 Find them on: @thbabergele
Sue Albone – THB Waveney
Coordinator since January 2023
Sue supports local foodbanks with huge dedication. With no prior fundraising experience, she’s taken on the challenge with impressive drive – working hard to raise funds to purchase much-needed products. Her passion and persistence are making a real impact in her community.
📸 Learn more: @the_hygiene_bank_waveney
Maria-Teresa Zatta – THB Buckingham
Maria-Teresa single-handedly runs the Buckingham project, supporting 10 community partners regularly. She crafts strong funding proposals and commits her time to ensuring products reach those in need. A powerful example of what one person can achieve with determination and care.
Emma Egan – THB Greenhithe & Dartford
Emma manages some of our busiest and most logistically challenging collection points – including at Bluewater shopping centre. Despite difficulties with parking, distance and donation volumes, she continues to collect and distribute hygiene products regularly. Her persistence ensures vital supplies reach those who need them.
Steph Guiblin – THB Leeds
Steph is a standout volunteer who’s rapidly grown the Leeds project. Each quarter, she adds more collection points, volunteers, and fresh ideas to keep the momentum going. She even raised £650 running a half marathon last April – a true superstar.
📸 Find them on: @thehygienebankleeds
Sam Dube – THB Southend
Sam brings creativity, energy, and a deep commitment to the community. With unique ideas and consistent effort, Sam is working hard to embed The Hygiene Bank into local life and raise awareness of hygiene poverty. Southend is a rising star project with so much potential.
📸 Learn more on: @thbsouthend
School-Based Projects
A special shout out to all our school-based projects. Staff and volunteers in schools witness hygiene poverty firsthand, and their passion to support students is nothing short of inspiring. They find time in their packed schedules to coordinate donations and distribute products – truly making a difference where it’s needed most.
To every volunteer, whether featured here or working quietly behind the scenes, we thank you. This movement is built on people like you who believe everyone should have access to the basics they need. Happy Volunteers’ Week!
#VolunteersWeek2025
