This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.
Banbury Town Council takes a stand against period poverty
08/03/2024
Free menstrual hygiene products will be available at town council buildings
Today is International Women’s Day and this week Banbury Town Council launched a new initiative in the fight against “period poverty” by providing free menstrual hygiene products to those in need in our area.
A recent survey by ActionAid found that over one in five women in the UK find it difficult to afford period products. The survey highlighted that 17 per cent of respondents stay home during their period because they can’t afford the necessary products. This can lead to missing school, work, exercise, or social activities, all of which can have broader impacts on their mental health, well-being, and future prospects.
The Town Council will be providing free products at town council owned locations such as public toilets in parks, cemeteries, sports pavilions and Banbury Town Hall.
Councillor Kieron Mallon, Leader of the Council, said: “This measure reflects Banbury Town Council’s responsiveness to the views and concerns of our residents throughout our town.
“Sanitary products are not a luxury but a necessity. This demonstrates our commitment to fairness and reflects our efforts to reduce the cost of this essential need following the Governments action in abolishing the ‘tampon tax’ which the EU law mandates on sanitary products.
“It’s about providing essential support and services to foster a town where every individual can live with dignity”.
Published: by Banbury FM Newsteam