A group of young activists in the U.K. is striving to ensure that teenagers have access to menstrual hygiene resources and support. Period poverty — defined as the lack of access to menstrual products, healthcare, and education about menstruation — affects many individuals globally, often leaving them feeling unprepared and ashamed of their bodies and menstrual cycles.
To counteract this stigma, the organization Youth Leads U.K., comprised of volunteers aged 14 to 24, has recently introduced a survey aimed at teenagers aged 12 to 19. This initiative provides a platform for young people to express their vision of a world where everyone can “Be Period Proud.” The project seeks to draw attention to how period poverty impacts education and mental health, while also offering actionable recommendations to policymakers.
Despite the U.K. government’s announcement last year to provide free menstrual products to all high schools and universities, Youth Leads U.K. reports that only 40% of schools have participated in the program. This gap leaves many still without essential items such as tampons and pads, crucial for maintaining healthy and dignified menstrual cycles. The organization aims to identify the specific needs of these individuals and facilitate conversations about menstrual health.
In conjunction with the survey (which includes a chance to win £50, about $70 USD), the volunteers are distributing free self-care packages to those in need. Each package will contain sanitary napkins, tampons, and self-care items like shampoo, conditioner, and deodorant — products that can often be financially burdensome or hard to obtain for those lacking reliable transportation.
In a statement, Youth Leads U.K. CEO Jamie Collins remarked, “We envision a world where young individuals who menstruate do not have to worry about affording necessary products. While it’s great that the government has started providing free items, we need to increase awareness and usage. Many young people feel uncomfortable asking for these products, and we want to understand why, so we can propose long-term solutions while offering immediate support through self-care packs.”
Period poverty is also a pressing issue in the U.S. For those interested in aiding access to menstrual products domestically, consider supporting organizations like Period Proud, which aims to normalize menstruation and provide resources specifically for BIPOC communities, regardless of gender identity or socioeconomic status. Contributing to their mission is a meaningful way to make a difference — a donation of $21 can ensure one person receives a month’s supply of menstrual products.
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In summary, a group of youth in the U.K. is breaking down barriers surrounding period poverty by providing access to essential menstrual resources and fostering open discussions about menstruation. Their efforts aim to raise awareness about the importance of menstrual health and the need for accessible products.