The Liberal Democrats have today urged the Government to extend the provision of free period products to key spaces including GP surgeries, women’s shelters and hostels.
The call coincides with today – 20th January – being the first day state schools and colleges in England can now order free period products for students as part of a government scheme to tackle period poverty.
Liberal Democrat Education Spokesperson Layla Moran MP said: “No child should miss out on any aspect of their education because of their period.”
“It is fantastic that schools across England will now be able to provide free period products. This is a big step towards the eradication of period poverty everywhere. It is vital that all schools take up this offer so that no pupil is left at a disadvantage.
“I am proud that my colleague Kirsty Williams, Welsh Education Minister, played a key role in ensuring children in Wales also have access to vital sanitary products.
“Liberal Democrats will continue to campaign for the provision of free period products in key spaces across England including GP surgeries, women’s shelters and hostels.”
Liberal Democrat Equalities Spokesperson, Christine Jardine MP added: “While this long overdue step is wholeheartedly welcomed, the Conservative Government must do much more to ensure women and girls are not hit by unjust costs.”
“It is time to end the tampon tax and it is time to end the price gap that exists across many products.
“Liberal Democrats will continue to fight to stop the multiple everyday costs that continue to push women into period poverty and exacerbate inequality everywhere, not just in schools.”