Scotland Becomes First Country to Provide Free Menstrual Products
- by Leona Burton
- in World Media
- — Nov 25, 2020
'With this landmark legislation, Scotland could soon become the first country in the world to eliminate period poverty once and for all, and with household finances under strain from the coronavirus restrictions, the need has never been greater. Mikaela, a spokesperson for On the Ball, which supported Lennon's bill, tells Dazed: "It's an awesome result and fantastic to see such unity in the final vote to make period products freely available in Scotland".
"We all agree to say that no one should worry about their next reusable tampons or protections", Scottish Labour MP Monica Lennon said in parliament, proposed the text. "An important policy for women and girls", Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said on Twitter. However, in 2019, it allocated another Pound 4 million to make period products available for free in libraries and recreational centres, CNN further reported.
"Once access to period products is secured for all, our next steps must be ensuring women's health in general remains high on the political agenda in Scotland and that we end all stigma around menstruation". We have shown that this Parliament can be a force for progressive change when we cooperate. Lawmakers across the political spectrum voiced their support for the bill throughout its final debate, and praised Lennon and others for making it a reality. "In these dark times we can bring light and hope to the world this evening".
More news: San Diego County reports record 1,546 new COVID-19 casesCommunities Secretary Aileen Campbell from the Scottish National Party hailed the passing of the legislation as a "significant moment for gender equality".
"Scotland won't be the last country to consign period poverty to history, but we are the first".
Having adequate menstrual products is also a health issue.
More news: Initial results from Oxford Covid-19 vaccine 'encouraging', say experts"Periods don't stop for pandemics and the work to improve access to essential tampons, pads and reusables has never been more important", she added.
Research suggests one in 10 girls across the United Kingdom has been unable to afford period products, and twice as many have used a less suitable product due to cost.
Some Scottish councils such as North Ayrshire - as well as individual businesses such as pubs, restaurants, and football grounds - had started providing free period products ahead of the decision, partly thanks to the advocacy of groups such as On the Ball. Some US states have moved to outlaw the "tampon tax" and/or provide free products in school bathrooms.
More news: Nifty, Sensex rise on vaccine optimism; Reliance gainsThe impact on education is another area the bill aims to tackle - with researchers finding nearly half of girls surveyed have missed school due to their period.
