Sanitary products law comes into force

Scotland will become the first country in the world to protect the right to free period products in law when new legislation comes into force tomorrow.

The Period Products Act means councils and education providers will be required to make free sanitary products available to those who need them.

Since 2017, about

£27 million has been spent on access in public settings.

The legislation was proposed by Labour MSP Monica Lennon and it was unanimously backed in the Scottish Parliament in 2020.

Lennon said: “I’m proud to have pioneered the Period Products Act, which is already influencing positive change in Scotland and around the world.

“As the cost-of-living crisis takes hold, it is a beacon of hope that shows what can be achieved when politicians come together for the good of the people we serve.”

Social Justice Secretary Shona Robisonsaid: “Providing access to free period products is fundamental to equality and dignity, and removes the financial barriers to accessing them.

“This is more important than ever at a time when people are making difficult choices due to the cost-ofliving crisis and we never want anyone to be in a position where they cannot access period products.

“Since 2018, we have delivered groundbreaking action by providing free period products for pupils and students in all our schools, colleges and universities.”