We’re providing reusable period care kits for local women
To support local women struggling due to the Covid pandemic, LOVEmyBEACH will be providing reusable period care kits via the Fleetwood Together foodbank.
Period poverty (a lack of access to sanitary products due to financial pressures) has increased by 6 times across the UK, during the Covid pandemic. 3 in 10 girls have reported being unable to access sanitary products during the pandemic too.
As some women struggle to afford essentials such as food, some consider period products a luxury. Reports show many have resorted to using inadequate alternatives including tissues, newspaper and socks. LOVEmyBEACH want to ensure local women do not need to risk infection and embarrassment, when a long term, sustainable solution is available.
Reusable period products, including reusable pads, period pants and menstrual cups, each last for many years instead of being a disposable, single use item. An average woman uses 11,000 period care products over her lifetime, but by switching to reusable she can save 90% of the cost involved.
Additionally, reusable products are much better for the environment as they generate no waste each month. Currently disposal of period products in the UK generates 200,000 tonnes of waste every year, with many disposable products containing significant levels of plastic.
LOVEmyBEACH launched the WOOP campaign (Wipe Out Ocean Plastic) in 2020, to raise awareness of the environmental impact of disposable period care products and wet wipes. When disposed of incorrectly and flushed down the toilet, these items can end up on our beaches, in the ocean and harming wildlife. 6% of beach litter found in the UK is sanitary items and in a single day 28,000 used tampons and applicators were found worldwide on beach cleans.
Emily Parr, Fylde Beach Care Officer said, “The WOOP campaign was previously focused on raising awareness of these issues and encouraging behaviour change. However, LOVEmyBEACH decided we wanted to do something to directly help during the pandemic. At a time when many people are struggling to afford essential items, let alone switch to more expensive reusable products, we realised the WOOP campaign could have a far greater impact.”
“Periods do not stop in a pandemic. Despite deepening financial hardships, all women should have access to effective and adequate period care products. By providing reusable products which will last for many years, we hope this project will benefit local women and children long term, whilst helping the environment and our beaches too”.
The funding for this project has been awarded by the Wyre and Fylde Covid Response Fund. Initially 100 women will receive a reusable period product kit, containing 4-5 reusable sanitary pads, information and a sewing template for them to make more for themselves and family members. If successful, we hope to secure further funding to roll the project out to reach more Fylde Coast women.
If any local businesses want to support the project or provide donations, please contact emily.parr@keepbritaintidy.org