Edinburgh Napier University

An initiative which sees free basic toiletries made available to people experiencing hard times is coming to West Lothian. 
 
The Dignity Boxes initiative is the idea of Edinburgh Napier lecturer Isabel Dosser which seeks to help those most in need for products such as shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, soap and shower gel.

Toiletries are placed in the Dignity Boxes so individuals are then able to access products that they cannot afford, without having to ask or thank anyone in an effort to promote their dignity.

West Lothian Council is supporting the campaign by placing product donation boxes across several buildings including Bathgate Partnership Centre. 
 
Donation boxes have also been placed at West Lothian Civic Centre and Bathgate Partnership Centre where staff have been contributing toiletries to aid the initiative; in the coming weeks donation boxes will be available in all partnership centres.

Leader of West Lothian Council, Lawrence Fitzpatrick said: “Tackling poverty is a main priority for West Lothian Council as outlined in the council’s new anti-poverty strategy. Sadly, almost anyone can experience poverty and it restricts the choices people can make, leaving them in difficult situations.

“This is a fantastic initiative that looks to help address the needs of those who find themselves in such an unfortunate situation and is one that the Council are delighted to support.”
 
Isabel Dosser said: “I am delighted that Dignity Boxes was invited to become part of the West Lothian Council anti-poverty strategy. The people in West Lothian are very generous and I feel confident we will receive many products which will help increase our reach to people living in poverty. In order to maintain the growth we are now recruiting volunteers for a variety of roles.”

The campaign is asking for donations of the following: 

• Shampoo/conditioner 
• Shower gel, soap 
• Shaving foam
• Deodorant 
• Toothpaste and toothbrushes
 
Individuals can access the Dignity Boxes at:  Bathgate Partnership Centre, Broxburn Family Centre, Daisy Drop-in at Almondbank Centre, Youth Action Project at Craigsfarm and The Dale in Armadale.