Cherwell Council pledges to provide free period products

A motion calling for freely available sanitary products has been passed unanimously.

Cherwell councillors have promised to look for places where period products can be provided.

The NHS does not provide free sanitary products universally in the UK but resolved in 2019 to offer free tampons to NHS patients in England.

Nearby Oxford City Council decided in 2022 to provide free period products in its public buildings and toilets.

The Banbury Grimsbury and Hightown councillor referred to the cost of living crisis and cited an ActionAid poll suggesting the percentage of those affected by period poverty has risen from 12 percent to 21 percent in one year.

Labour councillor, Rebecca Biegel, said "This is a problem faced by up to one-in-five women and girls who can't afford sanitary products. It is unbearable for the individuals and unacceptable in society.

"This comes on top of stark heat or eat decisions during the continuing cost of living crisis. It's unacceptable in society."

Essential goods

During the meeting deputy leader of the Conservatives, Donna Ford, said: "Hopefully we can look at this in conjunction with what's being done with the county council so we're not doubling things up."

Labour councillor Sean Woodcock said: "We're delighted that the motion was passed unanimously.

"The cost-of-living remains the single most important issue affecting our residents and it is appalling that some are suffering through being unable to afford what are essential goods."

He added: "We hope that the council will be able to provide some support with free sanitary products in various locations."

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