Scotland passes law guaranteeing access to free sanitary products

In a world first, councils and education providers across the country will now be legally required to make tampons and pads available to anyone who needs them.

In the UK, almost a quarter of all people who menstruate are unable to afford basic sanitary products like tampons and pads.

This is according to research from WaterAid, which earlier this year reported that 20 per cent of participants involved in their study are often forced to use makeshift materials, such as loo roll and sponges, due to period poverty.

However, while England and Wales (though the issue stretches far further than this island alone) have a long way to go before the widespread struggle is eradicated once and for all, Scotland has just this week become the first country in the world to protect the right to access free sanitary products.

The landmark legislation, which passed through Scottish parliament unanimously back in 2020 but has only today come into effect, will mandate local authorities – namely councils and education providers – to make tampons and pads available to anyone who needs them in their constituency.

Additionally, the government has provided funding for an educational website for employers, run a successful anti-stigma campaign, and improved menstrual health resources available for schools.

Taking a moment ahead of the Period Products (Free Provision) (Scotland) Act taking full legal effect tomorrow, to thank @stuartsmith02 and the SNP activists who wouldn’t wheesht and put their all into the campaign.

Principled, progressive and collaborative. 🙌 #PeriodDignity https://t.co/teVkhD1pDM

— Monica Lennon MSP (@MonicaLennon7) August 14, 2022

The so-called Period Product Act asserts the nation’s position as the global frontrunner in the fight to ensure everyone is entitled to safe periods.

It was initially put forward by Labour MSP Monica Lennon in a bid to challenge the fact that many low-income Scottish menstruators are still required to approach food banks for period products each month.

Since 2017, around £27m has been spent to provide access in public settings.

‘This milestone demonstrates the difference that progressive and bold political choices can make,’ says the pioneer of removing any form of stigma or financial burden from an unavoidable part of many people’s lives.

‘As the cost-of-living crisis takes hold, the Period Products Act is a beacon of hope which shows what can be achieved when politicians come together for the good of the people we serve.’

Proud to vote for this groundbreaking legislation, making Scotland the first country in the world to provide free period products for all who need them. An important policy for women and girls. Well done to @MonicaLennon7 @ClydesdAileen and all who worked to make it happen https://t.co/4lckZ4ZYIY

— Nicola Sturgeon (@NicolaSturgeon) November 24, 2020

As per the scheme, tampons and pads should be ‘reasonably easily’ obtainable free of charge.

People can find their nearest pickup point through the PickUpMyPeriod mobile app, which was recently launched in partnership with social enterprise Hey Girls.

‘The work we are doing in Scotland continues to be world leading, going goes beyond provision of free products,’ says social justice secretary Shona Robison.

She stresses the move’s importance as a means of both promoting equality and dignity as well as breaking down financial barriers.

‘I’m grateful to all the young women and girls who have been crucial in developing the best ways to access products to meet their needs.’