Newcastle Falcons are proud to join forces with The Multibank in its 2024 Christmas Campaign, standing alongside a city-wide effort to combat hygiene poverty among young people across the UK.

A campaign designed to raise awareness and respond to the rising issues of hygiene poverty amongst young people up-and-down the United Kingdom, guaranteeing that they can approach 2025 equipped with the tools, assurance, and confidence, they need to maximise opportunity and potential in the classroom.

For 46% of households, washing detergent is considered a luxury item on the shopping list, rising in cost at a rate of 41.6% in just 3-years. 42% of households are without deodorant. 400,000 are without soap or toothpaste. And with school staff recognising the isolation, withdrawal and bullying that is developing as a result, they are spending approximately £40 million of their own money to support pupils, purchasing soap, toiletries, and detergent as a means to counter divisiveness in the classroom.

With 2-in-3 staff expecting the level of hygiene poverty to increase in their school in the coming year, and with key workers’ mental health affected as they attempt to navigate the daily complexities that hygiene poverty presents, The Multibank has designed it’s 2024 campaign to get soap, shampoo, shower gel, deodorant, toothpaste, and toothbrushes in the hands of those most in need, ensuring that our young people start the day the right way, free of fear, anxiety, and judgement.

At Christmas, that peace of mind is the least a child deserves.

On December 4, The Multibank will join forces with NUFC Fans Foodbank to hold a donation drive ahead of the Newcastle United v Liverpool FC match, encouraging fans to bring essential hygiene products to support Newcastle Food Bank.

Gifted items such as soap, shampoo, shower gel, deodorant, toothpaste and toothbrushes, provided they are sealed and within their expiration date, will be collected at a manned donation bank on Strawberry Place.

In a show of solidarity, Newcastle Falcons are also partnering with The Multibank for a second donation drive ahead of their home fixture against Harlequins on Friday, January 3, 2025.

Fans attending Kingston Park Stadium can contribute essential hygiene products at donation banks positioned around the ground. All items collected from both drives will be distributed through Newcastle Food Bank’s network, creating hygiene packs for those in need.

Speaking on the announcement, Kelly Hogarth, campaign lead for The Multibank said: “The Multibank is thrilled to have joined forces with Fans Supporting Food Banks and the Newcastle Food Bank on two important campaign activations across the winter period.

“Hygiene Poverty is a largely preventable issue but its impact on young people is significant. The power of community in the North East is unmatched and with sports’ immeasurable ability to bring people together, we are confident that, supported by the fans, we can put smiles back on the faces of those most in need this Christmas.

“Every small gesture can make the biggest difference.”

Alison Carthy, head of ticketing and retail at Newcastle Falcons added: “When Kelly first approached the club about teaming up to support The Multibank, it was an easy yes. The people of the North East have always been ready and willing to help those in need and this is no exception.

“Our previous food bank drives have consistently exceeded expectations, and I’m confident we’ll feel the same sense of pride on January 3 when we open the donation tables.

“This appeal is a little different, as it focuses on hygiene products – something many of us may not think of when asked for donations. Hygiene poverty is devastating, especially for young children. No one should have to face the impossible choice between brushing their teeth and having a meal.

“Getting essential items like soap, shampoo, toothpaste, face wash and moisturisers into the hands of those who need them most – especially during the festive season – is a challenge I know the Newcastle Falcons family will rise to meet.

“As you go about your Christmas shopping over the next few weeks, if you can spare an extra couple of pounds, please consider adding one or two additional toiletries to your basket. Also, if Santa Claus has been especially generous this year and you find yourself with some unwanted smellies on December 25, bring them along to Kingston Park on Friday, January 3, when Newcastle Falcons take on Harlequins. Your donations will be gratefully received.

“Knowing we’ve helped make someone’s life a little easier is a wonderful way to start the new year.”

Newcastle Falcons are proud to stand with The Multibank in this vital campaign, bringing the city together to ensure young people across the UK can face the future with dignity and confidence.

Find out more about The Multibank by visiting their website.