Posted on Monday 9th September 2024
Staffordshire County Council is launching a pilot scheme to provide free period products to those who really need them in selected locations across the county.
Collection boxes, where residents who are struggling financially can access free pads and tampons, are now available in five community libraries.
The locations chosen for this trial are Stafford, Cannock, Burton, Newcastle and Kidsgrove.
Libraries will also act as donation points for anyone who would like to contribute to the scheme.
The Voice Project, which supports children and young people, including those in care and care leavers, will host a collection point at their venue in Stafford.
The pilot will look to break the stigma around periods and raise awareness of menstruation through educational resources.
National Graduate Trainee, Eloise Rylance, who has helped to implement the new scheme, said:
“Under the cost-of-living crisis, more people than ever are unable to afford the products necessary to manage their period.
“Some people have to use unsuitable products, one product for too long or have no products to manage their bleeding – resulting in profound health and wellbeing impacts.
“The Period support Scheme aims to make these essential items available and accessible for all who need them.”
Cllr Paul Northcott, Staffordshire County Council’s Cabinet Support Member for Public Health, Integrated Care and Safeguarding added:
“We are committed to supporting our residents in any way that we can and encourage anyone who needs period products and is struggling financially to come into one of the participating libraries for support.
“They are safe spaces for all, and products will be offered in a sensitive way with no questions asked.
“We’ll be evaluating the pilot scheme over the coming months and considering whether we can make these free products available from more council buildings in the future.”
The council have also partnered with Egal, to offer their Pads On A Roll at five libraries and a family hub. Their pads are individually wrapped and packaged in a roll with perforated plastic covers and dispensed similarly to toilet paper.
Niamh D'Arcy from Egal, said:
“We are delighted to partner with Staffordshire County Council to deliver dignified and accessible period product provisions for library visitors and staff.
“Pads On A Roll are now available in a number of public spaces in Staffordshire, enhancing accessibility and dignity for all users.
“This partnership helps us address a crucial need in public facilities, supporting community health and wellbeing.”
Find the location and opening times of the council’s libraries at: Your nearest library - Staffordshire County Council.