Cambridgeshire foodbank predicts high demand if sunscreen row continues
There are calls to scrap VAT on sun cream to make it more affordable
The hot weather is coming back, but as well as staying safe, many Cambridgeshire families might be worried if they can afford to stay safe.
Cancer charities have called for the 20 per cent VAT to be scrapped on sun cream to make it more affordable for families in need.
At March Foodbank, they currently don't have any sun cream in stock but they're not ruling out the chances.
“I think it’s difficult for families because people want to do the right thing, especially for their children,” said Mandy Crosse, who volunteers at the foodbank.
“They’re not always able to afford it and if we were able to support that through the foodbank, I think that would be important.”
The foodbank is allowed to provide other items aside from food and drink, including toothpaste and shower gel.
But it is unclear exactly how much sun protection items, like sun cream, they will have to donate.
"I think the demand would be high if we had it"
Some people in March that Greatest Hits Radio spoke to believe that sun cream is becoming unaffordable for many families.
One woman said: “Some are on a budget and have to focus on essentials and that might not be an essential for them, which puts themselves and their children at risk.”
A passer-by thinks the government “are pushing price up on everything to squeeze the life out of us.”
While another person said: “I think something needs to happen where the government get involved, maybe by giving a discount or prescribing it on the NHS; it’s a matter that needs addressing.”
A spokesperson for HM Treasury said that high-factor sunscreen is provided without VAT when dispensed by pharmacists to patients with certain conditions.
At the foodbank, Mandy feels the demand for sun cream would be high as the warmer weather approaches.
“It would be such a shame for people to feel like they can’t go out because they feel their children aren’t adequately protected,” she said.
“I think people can be at risk, especially young children for things like melanoma and other skin cancers.
“We’ve all become more aware of things like that in recent years, and I think the demand would be high if we had it (sunscreen).”