Free period products on offer at libraries

Five libraries will have collection and donation points for people to use

Free period products are to be made available in libraries in five Staffordshire towns as part of a pilot project.

The libraries in Stafford, Cannock, Burton, Newcastle and Kidsgrove will also have donation points for anyone who wished to contribute.

The Period Support Scheme aims to break the stigma around periods and raise awareness of menstruation through educational resources, the county council said.

The scheme will be evaluated to see if more free products can be made available from more council buildings in the future, the council added.

Graduate trainee Eloise Rylance, who has helped to implement the new scheme, said: “Under the cost-of-living crisis, more people than ever are unable to afford the products necessary to manage their period.

“Some people have to use unsuitable products, one product for too long or have no products to manage their bleeding – resulting in profound health and wellbeing impacts.

“The Period Support Scheme aims to make these essential items available and accessible for all who need them.”

The Voice Project, which supports children and young people, including those in care and care leavers, will also have a collection point at the library in Stafford.

Councillor Paul Northcott, cabinet member for public health, integrated care and safeguarding said: “We are committed to supporting our residents in any way that we can and encourage anyone who needs period products and is struggling financially to come into one of the participating libraries for support.

“They are safe spaces for all, and products will be offered in a sensitive way with no questions asked."