In 2018, in the UK alone, 773,700 young girls had to miss school because they couldn't afford tampons or sanitary towels. This is a heartbreaking statistic and one that is entirely preventable. Access to menstrual products should be a basic right, not a luxury. As someone who struggles to afford these essential items myself, I know firsthand the impact of being unable to purchase period pads or tampons. One time, I was shocked to find that a single pack could cost as much as £12.99, which is unaffordable for families like mine on low incomes.

It's time we address the issue of period poverty head-on. Why is it that contraception, such as condoms, is provided for free when menstrual products, which are necessities beyond our control, are not? Every woman and girl deserves the dignity of being able to manage her period without financial strain.

In recent years, Scotland has set a commendable precedent by providing free menstrual products in public places. There is no reason why the rest of the UK cannot follow this example and make these essential items freely available to all who need them. This would not only benefit women and girls directly but also contribute to breaking the stigma surrounding menstruation.

By signing this petition, you are supporting the call for the UK government to take immediate action. We urge policymakers to fund and implement a program that ensures free access to period pads and tampons across the country, particularly in schools, community centers, and public facilities. This is a necessary step towards gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls.

We cannot afford to wait any longer while young girls miss out on their education and opportunities because of a natural biological process. Stand with us in this important movement to end period poverty and make menstrual products accessible to all.

Please sign this petition to help make a real difference in the lives of women and young girls across the UK.