Following a successful campaign by UNISON Westminster branch, Westminster Council have agreed to provide free period products for staff working in all council offices – which will soon be rolled out to include libraries and housing offices.
This fantastic initiative was led by the branch’s women’s officer Kate Oboussier, who came up with the campaign due to suffering with irregular periods. Kate said: “I started talking to other people about it and realised that this was common with those experiencing a heavy period or the menopause being most impacted.
“I surveyed staff to establish the need, I also added in questions around the cost-of-living crisis and how this was impacting them. I was really shocked to find a high percentage of staff that were struggling to afford period products and even some who had moved to period suppressing contraception to reduce costs.
“The prevision of period products in the office will enable staff to feel more relaxed, by extension if staff are more relaxed and comfortable in their office space, they will be more productive and engaged in their job. Additionally, this prevision will act as a lifeline to those who are genuinely struggling to make ends meet and provide them with the dignity that everyone who menstruates deserves.”
Well done to all involved!
