Free period products on offer in public toilets

Councillor Beverley Hardman said she wanted to advocate for "period dignity"

Free sustainable period products will be made available as part of a trial initiative across public toilets in a Worcestershire district.

Period poverty charity Hey Girls have teamed up with Wychavon District Council to make the items free to access as part of a project to address the issue.

Councillor Beverley Hardman said she wanted to shift away from period poverty to advocate for "period dignity".

She said: "It's about promoting a positive message, promoting a supportive environment, and empowering women while tackling the stigma associated with periods."

The Conservative councillor added that the cost-of-living crisis significantly exacerbated economic hardship, forcing families to make tough choices between basic necessities.

"While Wychavon is generally considered an affluent area, it does have pockets of deprivation.

"We know that the demand for period products is there but, it's not just about addressing a lack of access; it's about creating a culture where periods are normalised, and no one feels shame or stigma.

"It's not just about providing products; it's about showing we care," she said.

In the initial trial period, free period products will be available through free-to-use machines located in all female toilets in the district.

Products are made from bamboo and will be made from certified organic cotton, the council said.