Scottish women can now access tampons and sanitary pads for free across the country—a groundbreaking policy unanimously approved by Parliament to tackle period poverty head-on.
Period poverty impacts millions worldwide, including around 1.7 million women in France. While some French schools are piloting free products, Scotland has surged ahead. Parliament unanimously passed legislation mandating free tampons and pads in schools, colleges, universities, and potentially public buildings. Toilets will stock these essentials for all who need them.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon celebrated this milestone on Twitter, praising campaigners for driving change. No other nation had implemented such comprehensive access before.
MSP Monica Lennon spearheaded the bill, arguing no woman should stress over affording essentials. Backed by women's groups and unions, it passed its first reading in February 2020 and was unanimously approved (121-0) in the second. The Scottish government estimates annual costs at nearly €10 million.
"Scotland won't be the last to end period poverty, but we're proud to be first," Lennon stated.
Charity Plan International UK, led by Rose Caldwell, commended Scotland's leadership. She highlighted key factors in period poverty: high costs, poor education, and menstrual stigma. Free access addresses these at the core.
