A CHARITY in Barrow that supports people affected by smell and taste disorders has received a top award.

Fifth Sense was established in 2012 in partnership with its chief executive Duncan Boak who lost his sense of smell as the result of a head injury in 2005 and Prof Carl Philpott, Director of the UK’s first NHS Smell and Taste Clinic.

They have led the development of the charity from an idea into a funded, staffed organisation.

It has now been named Charity of the Year 2022 by the British Society of Perfumers (BSP).

Mr Boak said: "I’m very proud that the British Society of Perfumers has chosen Fifth Sense as their charity of the year.

“The BSP and their members are as passionate about the importance of the senses of smell and taste as we are, and together we have a great opportunity to benefit the people that Fifth Sense represents and increase people’s understanding of the impact that and smell and taste impairment can have on the health and wellbeing of those affected.”

Mr Boak gave the keynote speech at the BSP’s May 2022 symposium. He was 'very pleased to see the level of support for Fifth Sense and our cause amongst BSP members'. 

Adding: "Until I established Fifth Sense in 2012 there was no organisation acting on behalf of the significant numbers of people experiencing problems with smell and taste, and we’ve been working hard since then to enable to get their voices heard.

"There is a greater awareness of smell and taste disorders than ever before because of the Covid-19 pandemic, and I spoke to many BSP members at the symposium who had experienced temporary smell impairment, or know someone who is struggling.

"Together we can push for greater recognition, understanding and improved services for the people Fifth Sense represents.”

On the charity's recognition, BSP president Marianne Martin said: "I am delighted I am that Fifth Sense is our chosen charity this year and that they were part of our first one-day symposium since the pandemic.

"We were honoured to have Duncan our keynote speaker. We are looking forward to further collaboration throughout the year and hope that the connections between the two organisations will continue beyond the year.”