Period product scheme Explained
The Period Product Scheme is a program in the UK that aims to provide free menstrual products to individuals who cannot afford them. The scheme was launched in 2019 by the UK government in response to concerns about period poverty, which refers to the inability to access menstrual products due to financial constraints.
Under the scheme, schools and colleges in England can order free menstrual products for their students, while community groups and local authorities can apply for funding to provide free products to people in their area. The products available include tampons, pads, and menstrual cups.
The scheme is part of a wider effort to tackle period poverty in the UK, which has been shown to affect a significant number of people. In a 2018 survey, it was found that 1 in 10 girls in the UK could not afford to buy menstrual products, while 12% had to improvise with items such as toilet paper. The Period Product Scheme aims to ensure that individuals can manage their periods with dignity and without financial hardship.
Scheme benefits:
Increased access to menstrual products: The scheme provides free menstrual products to individuals who cannot afford them, which helps to increase their access to these essential items.
Improved menstrual health: Lack of access to menstrual products can lead to poor menstrual hygiene practices, which can cause health problems such as infections. By providing free products, the scheme can help to improve menstrual health.
Reduced stigma: Menstruation is often stigmatized, and individuals who cannot afford menstrual products may feel embarrassed or ashamed. By providing free products, the scheme helps to reduce the stigma associated with menstruation.
Better education outcomes: Girls who miss school due to a lack of access to menstrual products may fall behind in their studies. By providing free products to schools, the scheme can help to improve educational outcomes for girls.
Cost savings: By providing free products to schools and community groups, the scheme can help to reduce the financial burden on individuals and families who may struggle to afford menstrual products.
Environmental benefits: Some menstrual products, such as tampons and pads, are single-use and can contribute to environmental waste. By providing reusable menstrual products such as menstrual cups, the scheme can help to reduce environmental waste.
What is "Period Poverty?"
Period poverty refers to the lack of access to menstrual products, education, and facilities, which can lead to a difficult and often humiliating experience for people who menstruate. This issue affects those who cannot afford menstrual products and may be forced to improvise with materials like toilet paper or cloth.
Period poverty can also lead to poor menstrual hygiene practices, increasing the risk of health problems like infections. Furthermore, individuals who experience period poverty may face stigma and shame around menstruation, which can negatively impact their mental health and well-being. In recent years, there has been increased awareness of the issue of period poverty, with efforts to address it ranging from government-funded schemes to private initiatives by companies like Luminati.
At Luminati, we’re proud to support the Period Product Scheme in the UK by repurposing pick and mix displays to house menstrual products. Our innovative approach provides a practical and accessible way for individuals to access menstrual products, while also reducing the stigma surrounding periods and raising awareness of period poverty.
We’ve already partnered with councils and schools to make a tangible difference in the lives of individuals who may struggle to afford menstrual products. By complementing the Period Product Scheme, we’re making a meaningful contribution to improving menstrual equity and promoting better menstrual health for all. At Luminati, we believe that everyone should have access to essential menstrual products, and we’re committed to doing our part to help end period poverty in the UK.
