The Welsh Government is marking International Day of the Girl
today by reaffirming its commitment to ending period poverty and
building a Period Proud Wales.
Period poverty can affect anyone who menstruates, and can lead to
missed school, work and social activities. The Welsh Government
wants to reduce stigma around periods and ensure no one is
disadvantaged because of them.
The Period Dignity Grant ensures that period products are
available in every school in Wales and across a range of
community venues including foodbanks, libraries and leisure
centres.
Sport, cultural venues and employers are also encouraged to
provide free products for staff and visitors in the Welsh
Government's A Period Proud Wales' plan.
Menstrual health is also a priority within the NHS Wales Women's
Health Plan, including continued support for the Bloody Brilliant
resources, which help young people learn about periods and
growing up.
Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Member for Social
Justice and Equality, Sioned said:
"Period dignity and poverty affects individuals, families and
communities across Wales, making it an issue for all of us.
"On International Day of the Girl, we are reminded of the
importance of ensuring people in Wales can manage their periods
with dignity, confidence and pride.
"Our Period Proud Wales plan is about breaking down stigma and
making sure that no one is held back by something as natural as a
period."
A good example of this work in action is a project on Ynys Môn,
where every primary school is offered year 6 sessions on periods
for all pupils, regardless of gender, alongside staff training,
parents' evenings and starter packs of sustainable products.
Healthy Schools Co-ordinator, Carla Desmond
said:
"Across Anglesey, we are working with schools, pupils, parents
and staff to make periods a normal conversation and ensure no
child is left without the knowledge or products they need.
Every school can access an inclusive Year 6 lesson covering
periods, puberty and growing up, delivered to all pupils. Schools
also receive bilingual resources, staff training, sustainable
product starter packs, and free access to period products.
Our aim is simple: to remove the embarrassment and stigma around
periods and make sure every young person in Anglesey feels
informed, supported and confident.
Notes to editors
For more information about periods, visit Bloody Brilliant, a source
of knowledge, support and information for young people.
