Period poverty refers to the inability to access the resources and knowledge necessary for adequate menstrual hygiene management. 3 in 10 people who menstruate have experienced period poverty at some point in their lives, forcing over a quarter to miss days of school, university and work.

The University of Manchester prides itself upon an ethos of equality, diversity and inclusion. Approximately 50% of the University's student and staff population is likely to menstruate. However, the University is yet to provide free menstrual products to students and staff in University bathrooms. Those who are 'caught out' by their period beginning unexpectedly or have forgotten to pack products are forced to either run to a shop between lectures, suffice with toilet paper, ask to borrow a product (which some may find embarrassing) or go home and forfeit their education/work progression. This situation can be highly anxiety-inducing.

The average person who menstruates spends anywhere between £130 and £500 on products each year but this economic burden is not taken into consideration in the delegation of student finance, nor in the delegation of wages. I have contacted several senior members of staff and been told that the University does not plan to provide free menstrual products because to do so "would not allow limited resources to be targeted in the most effective way". This is difficult to believe considering how the University is proudly investing £1 billion into its 'Campus Masterplan'. Comparatively, providing free menstrual products for staff and students in University bathrooms would cost very little and ensure that no staff nor student's productivity was compromised by their period. Failing to do so hinders the University's equal opportunities claim and is a potential detriment to the mental and physical well-being of staff and students.

The University has rightfully taken steps to alleviate the implications of mental health issues through support services and destigmatisation, so why have equivalent measures not been taken to tackle period poverty and menstrual stigma? The University of the West of England (UWE) has announced plans of free menstrual product provision, so why is a seemingly progressive institution like The University of Manchester not following suit? It's time for #UoMenstruation.