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Free Period Product Scheme for Schools
15 December 2021
Lead MP
Ruth Cadbury
Brentford and Isleworth
Lab
Responding Minister
Will Quince
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Word Count: 4627
Other Contributors: 1
At a Glance
Ruth Cadbury raised concerns about free period product scheme for schools in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key Requests to Government:
The MP asks the government to consider making the scheme an opt-out rather than opt-in, improving communication with schools about the scheme, expanding product offerings to include multi-use items like reusable pads and mooncups, ensuring a more permanent footing for the scheme, addressing regional inequalities through pupil premium numbers, and looking at Scotland's Act as a model.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
The scheme's sign-up rate is concerning with only 41% of primary schools participating. There are regional variations in uptake, such as the north-east having a lower sign-up rate compared to London at 44% versus 50%. The stigma around periods persists and period poverty has worsened due to increased living costs. One in fourteen girls have missed school because they could not afford or access period products.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
I have always supported this campaign and mentioned the interest from Northern Ireland's local Education Minister to consider the matter, following a debate in the Northern Ireland Assembly. Ards and North Down Borough Council is also willing to participate. School nurses in Northern Ireland provide access to period products for pupils. The Minister will be aware that Northern Ireland's Education Minister, Michelle McIlveen, has said that no-one should miss out on their education because they cannot afford or access menstrual products. Northern Ireland's three-year £2.6 million scheme aims to reduce stigma and anxiety among students.
Government Response
Will Quince
Government Response
Extends free period product scheme until August 2022; commits to meeting the hon. Member for Brentford and Isleworth at a later date to discuss further details; emphasizes removing stigma around periods through education curriculum. Announces plans to explore including additional products like period pants in the scheme, with a focus on sustainability. Reports that take-up rates are high among secondary schools (76%) and colleges (79%).
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About Westminster Hall Debates
Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.