Additional distribution points are being planned to improve access to free sanitary products across North Lanarkshire.
More than one million free period products were collected from local authority facilities last year and the council is now working in partnership with schools, further education establishments and the Scottish Government to increase availability and collection points across North Lanarkshire.
Several community organisations are also involved in the initiative, including Getting Better Together in Shotts, Newmains Community Trust, Glenboig Development Trust, Cornerstone House in Cumbernauld and Kirkshaws Neighbourhood Trust.
Councillor Kenneth Stevenson, NLC’s Convener of Communities said: “As part of our support for communities and a commitment to equality, we offer free period products that are easy to collect for those who need them.
“This is especially relevant just now with all the cost-of-living pressures people are experiencing and the added cost of affording sanitary products can be another worry. Our period dignity initiative aims to tackle poverty, but also to address dignity issues that affect all of those who menstruate regardless of income.
“We are continuing to expand the number of locations that will provide products and people can use the interactive online map on our website to find places near to them which distribute products completely free of charge.
“This includes health centres, libraries, nurseries, community hubs and leisure centres. Working with community organisations, we are also supporting individuals who are unable to attend local access points due to their own personal circumstances including those with mobility and health issues.
“We are engaging with partners to identify the most suitable locations and consulting with local people to gather their views to better inform the service we are providing. Over the coming months, we will be increasing our marketing and advertising campaign to signpost people to the locations near to them.”
Anyone experiencing issues accessing products or who would like to suggest a facility that does not currently have a supply of free products, or you would like to access a different type of period product, should email: communitymatters@northlan.gov.uk and a member of the team will be in touch.
More information is available by logging onto https://www.northlanarkshire.gov.uk/your-community/working-communities/free-period-products
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