Free period products available in public spaces in Wales
This initiative is part of the Welsh Government's £3.2 million Period Dignity fund.
The funding aims to provide essential period products to all who need them, in a bid to eradicate period poverty by 2027.
These products are now freely available not only in every school and college in Wales but also in hundreds of public venues, including libraries, leisure centres, food banks, sports clubs, and youth hubs.
The Welsh Government is determined that no one should miss education, work, or social activities because they cannot afford or access period products.
Flintshire has been particularly successful with its 'Reusable Period Product Parties', which provide free reusable period cup kits, pad kits, and period pants.
These events also create spaces for open conversations about menstrual health.
The Community Sports Development Team in Flintshire has also included period products in first aid kits during outdoor activities and events.
Councillor Mared Eastwood, Flintshire Council's cabinet member for education, Welsh language, culture, and leisure, said: "Holding Reusable Period Product Parties across libraries and leisure centres has helped to raise awareness and educate the community on reusable products, including a more sustainable alternative to disposable options.
"Over 500 free reusable period pad kits, period pants kits, and period cup kits have been distributed through these events with many period positive conversations."
The Welsh Government's cabinet secretary for social justice, Jane Hutt, said: "Period products are essential items and should be freely available to everyone who needs them.
"Flintshire's approach to offering reusable products in public spaces while encouraging open conversations about periods is helping break down stigma."
The minister for mental health and wellbeing, Sarah Murphy, said: "Menstrual health is one of the eight priority areas in our Women's Health Plan.
"We are striving for period equity for all women and girls with access to products, facilities, and healthcare to manage their period and menstrual health.
"By making free period products widely available across Wales, we're not just addressing period poverty – we're empowering women to participate fully in life without barriers."
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