The campaign to tackle period poverty in Scotland has taken a step forward – and you can tell MSPs just how important the issue is as Monica Lennon’s bill has reached the consultation stage.
Holyrood’s Local Government and Communities Committee is asking for views on the Period Products (Free Provision) (Scotland) Bill, which was introduced by Lennon on International Women’s Day in April.
If passed, it will enable everyone who needs period products to access them free of charge through a Scottish government-run “period products scheme” while products would also be available in primary and secondary schools, colleges, universities and more.
To say I am excited about my member’s bill reaching this stage is an understatement.
Please have your say. So many campaigners have contributed and have evidence and experience to share. The Parliament needs to hear from you. 👇🏼 https://t.co/Ozno8qtOll
— Monica Lennon MSP (@MonicaLennon7) September 16, 2019
Public views will help shape the next stage of the bill with a call for written evidence to be sent to the committee by November 5.
Lennon has been at the forefront of making Scotland a “world-leader” in ending period poverty. Writing exclusively for The Big Issue at the start of her period poverty campaign in 2017, Lennon told us: “If you are trying to survive on a low income, are homeless or have certain health conditions, talking about and managing your period isn’t just awkward, it can be impossible and messy.
