Primary seven pupils at St Bernard's Primary in Coatbridge are making a significant impact on families across Lanarkshire through an inspiring social enterprise that places community, learning, and kindness at its core.
Soap Glow, led and supported by pupils at St Bernard's Primary in Coatbridge, addresses an often-overlooked need by providing free hygiene products to families who require them most. Each month, up to 200 individuals receive a neatly packaged box containing essential hygiene items.
Simple yet powerful idea
"The idea is simple but powerful," explains Karen Shields, who founded the initiative alongside community volunteer Amanda Moore. "Pupils collect used cans, which are then recycled to generate vouchers. These vouchers are used to buy essential hygiene items such as shampoo, soap, period products, and deodorant – everyday basics that food banks do not usually provide. Our pupils then sort and pack the items into hygiene boxes, ready for distribution to local families."
The project was established after recognising a clear gap in support for families in the area. What began as a local initiative has now expanded, with Soap Glow extending its reach to support communities across Lanarkshire.
Pupils at the heart of the enterprise
Amanda added: "At the heart of its success is the role played by the pupils themselves. Far from being a classroom project, Soap Glow is a fully active social enterprise, with young people driving every stage of the process. From collecting and sorting cans to packing hygiene boxes and even helping out at the community café, the pupils see first-hand how their efforts make a difference. They follow the journey from an empty tin to a finished hygiene box placed into the hands of a family who needs it."
Both Karen and Amanda highlighted the substantial support received from local bars, businesses, and families who donate empty cans and bottles to support the project.
Developing life skills
The initiative also allows pupils to develop skills that extend far beyond the classroom, explains Kelly Anne Dunn, headteacher of St Bernard's Primary. "They are learning about responsibility, teamwork, and empathy, while also developing an understanding of financial literacy and the circular economy," she said.
The project includes a monthly community café held at the nearby Chapel Hall. For a £1.00 entry fee, attendees can enjoy food and a hot drink, as well as benefit from the social aspect of being with others.
Community and council support
Councillor Geraldine Woods, Convener of the council's Communities Committee, said: "I'd like to congratulate everyone involved with this project for everything they are doing to support people in the greatest need. The pupils are a true inspiration, and I wish them all the very best for their future endeavours."
Amanda Moore added: "A lot of people don't realise that hygiene poverty is a very real issue. Essential items like shampoo, deodorant, and period products often fall through the cracks and aren't always available through the usual support routes. That's why Soap Glow exists – to help fill that gap in a practical, compassionate way.
"What makes the project so special is its circular approach. The children are literally taking items that would otherwise go to waste and turning them into something meaningful for local families. It's a simple idea, but it has a powerful impact, linking sustainability directly with community support.
"Most importantly, the pupils are the driving force behind it all. They're not just taking part in a school project – they're actively creating positive change in their own communities. From an empty bottle or can to a hygiene box in someone's hands, that whole journey is something people really connect with. That's where the real magic of Soap Glow lies."
