Significant numbers of people in the UK are affected by a smell and taste disorder that impacts their physical and mental health, wellbeing and safety. Often ignored and unheard, people living with impaired smell and taste can often experience mental health problems through feeling disconnected from their loved ones and cut off from simple pleasures, such as enjoying a meal.  

Having poor, altered or no sense of smell means that people’s safety and wellbeing at home is put at risk through being unable to smell gas, smoke from a fire or when food is unfit to eat, along with the worry and anxiety that this causes.

Fifth Sense was established in 2012 with the sole aim of transforming the lives of those affected by smell and taste disorders. The charity provides direct support and information to individuals and families affected by these conditions, works to improve knowledge amongst professionals through education and training, and supports research to improve understanding and accelerate the steps to treatments and potential cures.

Fifth Sense is pleased to be part of the #WeAreAble campaign, to both highlight the challenges faced by the people it represents and help people with smell and taste disorders stay safe and well at home.