Period poverty is a major issue that affects people around the world, including right here in the UK. But Scotland is leading the way with a groundbreaking solution: free period products for anyone who needs them. This initiative is making waves and addressing the often-overlooked problem of period poverty. So, what is period poverty, and could Scotland’s approach be the answer?
Period poverty refers to the struggle many people face in being able to afford menstrual products like pads, tampons, and period underwear. It's a problem that affects millions globally, including students, low-income families, and people who are homeless. Those who can’t afford these basic items may miss school, work, or important events. This affects not only their health and hygiene but also their education and quality of life.
According to the British Medical Journal, period poverty impacts mental well-being and can lead to isolation and anxiety. It's not just about access to products; it's about dignity and equal opportunities.
In August 2022, Scotland became the first country in the world to make period products free for anyone who needs them. Under this initiative, people can access free pads, tampons, and other products in schools, colleges, universities, and many public places. The goal? To end period poverty and make sure no one has to struggle to get the basic hygiene products they need.
Public places like libraries, community centres, and even some train stations now offer period products for free in their restrooms. The PickupMyPeriod app allows people in Scotland to find the nearest locations where free products are available, making access easy and discreet.
This initiative is part of a broader period poverty campaign to raise awareness and help remove the stigma around menstruation. By making these products available in public spaces, Scotland is ensuring that everyone has access to what they need, when they need it.
The free period products initiative has already made a big impact on Scotland. Here’s how:
Before the initiative, many people struggled to afford menstrual products. Now, with pads and tampons available in public restrooms, it’s easier for everyone to get what they need, even in emergencies. No more rushing home or missing important activities because you don’t have access to product
By making period products widely available, Scotland is helping reduce the shame or embarrassment that sometimes surrounds periods. Menstruation is a normal, healthy part of life, and by making products accessible in public, the initiative is breaking down the taboos around periods.
For students, this initiative has been especially helpful. According to Plan International UK, 1 in 10 girls in the UK misses school because they can’t afford period products. In Scotland, making these products free means more students can attend school without fear or embarrassment. This has a direct impact on their education and opportunities for the future.
For low-income families, buying menstrual products each month can be an added financial burden. The Scottish initiative helps ease that burden by offering free access in places like supermarkets and public buildings. This not only helps financially but also ensures that no one has to choose between period products and other essentials.
Scotland’s success raises the question: Could other parts of the UK, or even other countries, follow suit? Some areas in England and Wales have made efforts to provide free period products in schools, but there’s still a long way to go before this becomes a nationwide initiative.
Campaigners continue to push for period poverty solutions across the UK, and many hope that Scotland’s initiative can be a model for other regions. The Guardian highlights that countries like New Zealand and France are also working on similar programs, which shows a growing global effort to address this issue.
Would this work across the UK? The answer is likely yes. Scotland’s initiative is not only about making products free but also about changing the way society thinks about periods. The cost of period products can be significant over time, and this solution ensures everyone has access without judgment.
Another important factor to consider is sustainability. Period products, especially single-use pads and tampons, contribute to a lot of waste. Scotland’s free period products initiative includes eco-friendly options, such as reusable period products like menstrual cups and period underwear. This helps reduce waste and is a more sustainable approach to menstruation.
At Fluxies, we’re proud to be part of the movement toward sustainable period products. Period underwear is a great reusable option for anyone looking to reduce their environmental impact while staying comfortable. Check out the Fluxies collection for more on eco-friendly period solutions.
Scotland’s initiative is a huge step toward ending period poverty, but it’s just one piece of the puzzle. Along with providing free products, we need to continue raising awareness, educating young people, and breaking the stigma around menstruation.
Ending period poverty requires more than just access to products—it requires a cultural shift. Scotland has shown that by providing free period products, we can reduce stigma, improve education, and make sure that no one is held back because of their period.
Scotland’s decision to provide free period products is a game-changer. It’s helping to reduce period poverty, making menstrual products accessible to everyone, and setting an example for the rest of the world. As this movement continues to grow, we hope to see other countries and regions follow Scotland’s lead, ensuring that no one has to experience the difficulties of period poverty.
For more information on the fight against period poverty and how to get involved, check out organizations like Bloody Good Period and The Red Box Project, both of which work to provide free period products and support for those in need.
