Council to trial scheme to tackle period poverty

A scheme to make access to period products free is set to be trialled in Oxfordshire.

The county council will discuss providing the products in 18 libraries and eight children and family centres, following a motion in September.

Executive director of resources Lorna Baxter said residents were making "difficult decisions" about what to buy during the Cost of Living crisis.

The cabinet will make its decision on 18 June.

The plan aims to provide period products at locations "serving priority areas of deprivation".

'Very distressing'

Ms Baxter said: "We know that in 2023, Action Aid found that 21% were struggling to afford period products – an increase of nearly 10% in just a year. This is a trend that is even higher among younger age groups.

"No doubt it is very distressing for those experiencing period poverty but it can also pose a real health risk. This is why it’s so important that we make it easier for everyone who needs them to access period products.

"Being able to access period products at school, work or in a public place free of charge could be the difference for some between staying at home or being able to go to school, work, exercise, socialise and more.

"This all can have wider implications for a person’s mental health, wellbeing and future."

She added: "We have been looking at a number of options to support residents, including disposable and reusable products.

"We hope that this trial will help us to determine the most effective way to support those experiencing period poverty in the county."

Follow BBC South on Facebook, X, or Instagram. Send your story ideas to [email protected].