Question

To ask the Minister for Women and Equalities, what recent steps the Government has taken to help tackle period poverty in (a) Slough and (b) the South East.

This Government is committed to addressing the underlying causes that lead women and girls into period poverty. Across the UK, many individuals and families are experiencing financial pressures as a result of the cost of living. Through our efforts to make work pay and our continued investment in public services, we are determined to ensure that everyone has access to essential items, including period products.

The Government supports several schemes to ensure that those in greatest need can access period products. All women and girls being cared for by the NHS are entitled to them, on request, free of charge. Similarly, the Department for Education runs a scheme to provide free period products to girls and women in their place of study. ​Since its launch in January 2020, 99% of secondary schools and 87% of post-16 organisations in England have used the scheme to order period products.

These national schemes benefit areas across the country, including the South East. Local authorities and NHS bodies deliver the policies in their areas, working with schools, healthcare providers and community organisations to reach those in need.