University takes the next step in tackling period poverty for its students

Buckinghamshire New University is leading the way in championing equality in period poverty with a new initiative launching this Spring.

The University, in collaboration Bucks Students’ Union, is providing free period products in all campus bathrooms - not just those allocated to female-identifying students.

This is just part of the University’s ongoing inclusivity efforts and it is thought to be the first in England to implement this initiative, following a campaign by SU President Tamsin Grainger.

The Government started a free product scheme in schools and colleges last year, but the University has decided to take it on for its students following a surge in period poverty during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighted by charity Bloody Good Period. In November, the organisation reported having supplied 53,000 sanitary items to food banks since the pandemic began, a figure that is almost six times as many as previous years.

Research suggests that users of period products spend approximately £10 on products every month. The University recognises the financial struggles its students have faced as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, and approximates that implementation of this scheme could save its student community thousands each year.

Tamsin said she would like other institutions to follow suit.

“Lots of us have been in that embarrassing position where we forget to take period products with us. I remember myself and friends frequently going to reception in school and trying to discreetly ask for help,” she said.

“Somehow, it feels even more difficult once you’re at University. Regardless of the expense, which for many students equates to the price of three meals, having to approach a help desk and ask someone you don’t know for period products is very uncomfortable.

“However, I can’t even imagine how distressing that position must be for a trans man or non-binary person who may not even be ‘out’ amongst their peers.

“It’s important that we remember that not all women menstruate, and not everyone who menstruates is a woman. Universities are letting a lot of people down when they only make these items available in women’s bathrooms.”

The team at the Students’ Union conducted a trial on the University’s Uxbridge Campus which predominantly accommodates nursing students. This group were highlighted as being more likely to benefit from the scheme due to the long hours and shift patterns associated with their disciplines. The trial saw consistent usage by both students and staff and resulted in the University-wide rollout.

The Students’ Union will be continuing their campaign to not only end period poverty within the BNU community, but to end the stigma by opening up the conversation surrounding periods. The sabbatical team have already begun by testing out sustainable products; you can read Tamsin Grainger’s review of a menstrual cup here, and Tash Neal’s reusable pad write up here.

Read more about the #BloodyGoodBucks campaign here.