Scotland today becomes the first country in the world to guarantee the right to free period products
of the 16.9 million low-income women in the U.S. could not afford menstrual products in the past year.That’s why Scotland’s period product law is so important, activists and legislators say. “It was about showing, through practical politics, that we can make a difference, and that women, girls and people who menstruate can feel valued,” says Monica Lennon, a member of parliament in Scotland who campaigned for the law.
While conducting early research into the issue in 2016, Lennon says she was shocked to find that Scottish women were using toilet paper or rags—and missing school or work because they were unable to afford period products. In some cases, Lennon adds, victims of domestic abuse were prevented from accessing products by controlling partners. She sought to tackle the issue in a “dignified way”—making products as readily available as toilet paper in a public bathroom.
“Periods are normal,” she says, “and no one should ever be made to feel ashamed, or that it’s dirty or needs to be hidden away.” Lennon’s goal is to remove all barriers to society that having a period may present—“it’s about making sure that everyone can participate in education and work and sport and other leisure pursuits. You shouldn’t have to give that up because you’re on your period,” she adds. In 2019, aof 1,000 girls in the U.K.
Ahead of today’s news, there has been years of progress in making period products more accessible in Britain and around the world. In January 2021, the U.K.—which is made up of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland—the so-called 5% V.A.T. “tampon tax” applied to period products, which are considered luxury, non-essential items under E.U. law. The U.K. was able to abandon the levy after leaving the E.U.
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Extend free period products across the UK, campaigners urge as Scottish law comes into effect🔴 Extend free period products across the UK, campaigners urge ➡️ From Monday, Scotland will become the first country in the world to legally protect the right to free period products
Read more »
Germany is facing dramatic change in many dimensions all at onceGermans may well forgive their politicians for privations closely connected to the war. Recent polling shows strong majorities remain in favour of sanctioning Russia and sending arms to Ukraine
Read more »
Jet2 gives staff four extra holiday daysThe aviation and holiday giant is hoping the extra days will help their staff during this 'challenging period'
Read more »
James May Speaks Out After High-Speed Crash During The Grand Tour FilmingThe presenter was in an accident while shooting a challenge for the Amazon Prime Video show.
Read more »