Scotland to become first country to end ‘period poverty’

Scotland has become the first country in the world to end ‘period poverty’.

  • The Scottish Parliament on February 25, 2020 passed the Period Products (Free Provision) (Scotland) Bill that aims to make sanitary products free for women of all age groups.
  • Scotland mentions some circumstances that make menstruation a “difficult experience” for women. These include homelessness, coercive, controlling and violent relationships and health conditions such as endometriosis.
  • In 2018, Scotland became the first country in the world to make such products free for all students.

What is Period Poverty?

  • Period poverty is a condition where a low income woman can’t access or afford suitable period products.
  • The average period lasts about five days and in Scotland it can cost up to £8 a month for tampons and sanitary towels depending on how heavy the bleeding is. Some women struggle to meet this expense.
  • Research shows that women will spend just under £5,000 in their lifetime on period products. This can be a problem for those on a low income, potentially causing them to miss work and school if they cannot afford such items.

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