Period Poverty: Progress and Action

Period poverty, defined as the lack of access to sanitary products, education, and facilities for menstruation, is an issue that affects millions of people in the UK. It is a challenge rooted in inequality, stigma, and economic hardship, and it continues to impact the education, health, and dignity of women and girls.

In the UK, more women than men live in poverty.

Despite the increasing attention in recent years, the problem persists, particularly amidst the cost-of-living crisis. Recent surveys reveal that more than one in five women in the UK struggle to afford period products. For those aged between 18 and 24, the situation is even more severe, with over a quarter facing these difficulties. Many resort to dangerous and undignified methods such as reusing disposable products or improvising with unsuitable materials like tissues or socks. This not only puts their health at risk but also exacerbates feelings of shame, embarrassment, and isolation.

Tackling the Tampon Tax

The history of menstrual equity in the UK has been shaped by a long-standing societal discomfort with discussing menstruation. For decades, period products were taxed as luxury items. The so-called "tampon tax" became a flashpoint for campaigners, leading to a broad movement to eliminate this unjust charge.

In 2000, following growing pressure, the VAT on menstrual products was reduced from the standard rate to 5%, but campaigners continued to push for full abolition. Notably, activist Laura Coryton launched a petition that gathered hundreds of thousands of signatures, drawing widespread media attention. It wasn’t until the UK left the European Union that the government was able to remove the tax entirely. In January 2021, the tampon tax was officially abolished. However, subsequent reports indicate that many retailers failed to pass the savings on to consumers, highlighting the need for stronger regulatory oversight.

Scotland leads the way

Scotland emerged as a global leader in tackling period poverty with the passing of the Period Products (Free Provision) (Scotland) Act. Enacted in January 2021 and coming into full effect in August 2022, the law mandates that free menstrual products be made available in all public institutions. This includes schools, universities, libraries, and community centres.

It marked a historic moment as Scotland became the first country in the world to make such a commitment, allocating substantial public funds to sustain the scheme - £8.7 million per year. The success of this legislation has had a ripple effect across the UK. Wales has since launched its own initiatives, including the Period Proud Wales Action Plan, which ensures access to products in educational institutions and some public venues. Northern Ireland passed similar legislation in 2022. England, while making some strides, lags behind in adopting a nationwide statutory approach. The Department for Education introduced a voluntary Period Products Scheme for schools and colleges, but its implementation has been inconsistent, leaving many students without guaranteed access.

Campaigns

Much of the momentum behind these changes has come from grassroots campaigns and youth-led activism. Amika George, a teenager from London, launched the Free Periods campaign in 2017 after learning about the number of students missing school due to their inability to afford sanitary products. Her activism mobilised thousands, leading to protests, petitions, and even legal challenges aimed at holding the government accountable under the Equality Act.

Other organisations such as Freedom4Girls, Bloody Good Period, Hey Girls, and the Red Box Project have played pivotal roles by providing products directly to those in need and by advocating for policy change.

Environmental campaigner Ella Daish has drawn attention to the sustainability of period products through the End Period Plastic campaign, influencing schools to offer plastic-free alternatives.

Major retailers have also stepped in to help bridge the gap. Aldi, for example, has rolled out free period products in store toilets and partnered with charities to donate over a million items. Morrisons introduced a discreet system called "Ask for Sandy," allowing people to request free sanitary products without embarrassment. These corporate initiatives, while commendable, are not a substitute for universal and legislated access. Local efforts, such as hygiene banks and student unions, have also filled the void. At universities like Nottingham and UCL, tens of thousands of products have been distributed, often funded through student campaigns and donations. Despite these efforts, demand continues to outpace supply, especially as the economic crisis deepens.

Impact of Period Poverty

School attendance

The impact of period poverty is far-reaching. Educationally, it leads to absenteeism and disengagement, particularly among adolescents who are already navigating the complexities of puberty. Access to reliable period products allows girls to attend school consistently, participate in activities, and focus on their studies without distraction. In Scotland, school attendance has improved since the implementation of free period provision.

Health

From a health perspective, the use of makeshift products or overuse of single-use items can result in infections and long-term consequences. Mentally, the stress and stigma associated with being unprepared for a period can lead to anxiety, depression, and social withdrawal. Addressing period poverty not only improves physical health but also restores confidence and promotes emotional well-being.

Household Costs

Menstruation-related expenses impose a hidden cost on households already facing financial hardship. Removing the tampon tax was a step in the right direction, but further action is needed to ensure affordability across the board. Legal mandates, such as those in Scotland, remove the burden from individuals and place the responsibility on public institutions. This fosters equality by ensuring that everyone, regardless of income, can manage their periods with dignity.

Enviroment

Promoting access to reusable products also contributes to environmental sustainability, reducing the significant waste generated by disposable items.

Society

Tackling period poverty brings about numerous societal benefits. It supports gender equity, empowers women and girls, and strengthens community well-being. Normalising menstruation in public discourse helps break the silence and stigma that have long surrounded it. Ensuring access to period products is not just a matter of health or education, it is a matter of human rights.

Conclusion

For true menstrual equity and the abolition of period poverty to be realised across the UK, England and Wales must follow Scotland’s example and legislate for universal free provision. Retailers should be held accountable for passing on tax savings, and sustainable, dignified access must be expanded beyond schools into workplaces, community centres, and public venues.

In the long run, eradicating period poverty will lead to a more inclusive, healthier, and just society. No one should be held back by their period. The UK has made progress, but the journey is far from over. With continued advocacy, investment, and education, a future free from period poverty is possible, one where menstruation no longer limits potential, participation, or pride.

July 2025