EFFORTS to tackle and prevent 'period poverty' in North Ayrshire have been updated as new legislation comes into force across Scotland.

On Monday August 15, the Period Products (Free Provision) (Scotland) Act 2021 came into effect across the country, meaning councils and education providers must make period products available freely for those in need of them.

North Ayrshire Council was already ahead of the game, having become the first local authority in the UK to introduce free period products in schools in 2017.

Now the council has updated its 'period dignity action plan' after consulting around 500 people in the area on how the steps put in place five years ago can be improved to ensure that those affected by period poverty get help where and when they need it.

Council leader Marie Burns said: “North Ayrshire is a great place to live and work but unfortunately our authority faces a number of challenges, including high levels of unemployment and rising child and household poverty.

“Period poverty is an example of where the council has been able to offer support with dignity to those who need to access products.

“North Ayrshire Council recognises that living in poverty is not a choice, and all of our citizens deserve the right to free and suitable products. We are committed to raising the awareness of our provision to allow everyone the right to manage periods safely, confidently, and most importantly with dignity."

Measures in the action plan include ensuring a range of free and accessible stock is available in all schools; making sure a range of free and accessible products are available in council buildings; and extending the products available in male and accessible toilets to ensure the service is inclusive regardless of gender.

 

Around one in five people in Scotland are affected by period poverty, meaning they cannot afford or access period products.

This is known to have detrimental effects on work, school, and social activities as well as long term effects on physical and mental health.

For more information on the council’s plan, click here.