Question to the Department for International Development:

To ask Her Majesty’s Government whether they have plans to introduce measures to maximise the impact of United Kingdom aid investment in water, sanitation and hygiene services (1) in health clinics, (2) in schools, (3) with respect to their strategy for the health of mothers, newborn babies and children, and (4) with respect to gender inequality.

The UK Government recognises the importance of promoting safe and reliable Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) in health centres and schools in developing countries to reduce environmental health risks. In health clinics adequate WASH is particularly important for the health of mothers, newborn babies and children, and this is recognised in DFID’s health service programmes.

The availability of water and sanitation in schools contributed to cleaner, safer, and more conducive learning environments. This is particularly important for girls who must have privacy as well as safe, convenient, hygienic conditions during menstruation. Where DFID has supported WASH in schools, there is anecdotal evidence that girls school attendance and performance is enhanced. International figures for WASH access in schools are much worse than health facilities and DFID has responded in its programming globally. In Sierra Leone, for example, this has prompted DFID to fund the construction of WASH facilities in 200 schools and 120 community health centres, as part of the Post-Ebola response.

DFID has a statutory duty to ensure gender equality is a consideration across all of its work. This follows the International Development Gender Equality Act passed in May 2015.