Hygiene Kit; £20

Packs like these must walk off of shelves at Christmas time - everyone in the U.K. seems to get at least 3 sets of presentation-boxed 'smellies' every year. They're not exactly original, but they are very nice, usually very appreciated, and always very useful. This Christmas I want a toiletries set - but not one of the ribbon encased aromatherapeutic moisturising ones - this one.

For a family swept up in an emergency, perhaps ending up in a camp with hundreds or thousands of other people, epidemics are an all too real possibility. Frustratingly, many of the diseases that thrive amongst them are preventable by the provision of basic equipment. Toothbrushes, razors, soap, washing powder, sanpro, toilet roll, shampoo, toothpaste... nothing fancy.

As well as the health help this could give people, it's a gift that could help people feel better about themselves. If you're clean and groomed you feel better, more able to face other people and less grimy and embarassed. Some of the people who would be given one of these have had all their dignity stripped away. This simple little package could put a sliver of that dignity back where it deserves and belongs.

[ Save The Children shop, www.savethechildrenshop.co.uk ]