Three quarters of secondary schools order free period products

More than three quarters of state secondary schools and colleges in England have accessed period products from the free government scheme.

Since the scheme launched last January, 9,702 schools and colleges have ordered period products, making them free and available to all their pupils and helping to reduce stigma around menstruation.

The government is now encouraging all schools and colleges to access period products through this scheme, as it is the quickest and simplest way of making sure they are available to everyone who needs them.

The number of orders increased steadily between January and March then remained constant during April and May, when schools were closed to most pupils due to the pandemic. Orders increased again in June as schools and colleges began to fully reopen. The scheme was – and continues to be - open throughout the pandemic.

The free period product scheme for all young people in English state schools and colleges has been extended and will continue at least throughout 2021.

Vicky Ford, the Children and Families Minister, said: “No pupil should ever have to miss school because of their period. I am pleased to see over three quarters of secondary schools and colleges have accessed free period products, but I want everyone to know this support is available. If you are a school or college leader, I urge you to please get in touch and order these products for your pupils so that together we can help end period inequality for good.”