FREE sanitary products will be available to pupils, students and learners at schools, colleges and universities across Scotland thanks to a new £5.2 million fund - which was launched at Ardrossan Academy last week.

The Scottish Government is the first government in the world to make free sanitary products available to all pupils and students and this follows on from North Ayrshire Council introducing free sanitary products in all schools and council buildings in the fight against period poverty.

The scheme – which coincides with the start of the academic year – is aimed at helping banish the scourge of period poverty for Scotland’s 395,000 school pupils, college students and university students.

The Scottish Government has worked closely with partners including the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities (COSLA), Colleges Scotland, Universities Scotland and the Scottish Funding Council to ensure the availability of products reflects the views and needs of learners.

Visiting Ardrossan Academy, Communities Secretary Aileen Campbell said: “In a country as rich as Scotland it’s unacceptable that anyone should struggle to buy basic sanitary products. I am proud that Scotland is taking this world-leading action to fight period poverty and I welcome the support of local authorities, colleges and universities in implementing this initiative.

“Our £5.2 million investment will mean these essential products will be available to those who need them in a sensitive and dignified way, which will make it easier for students to fully focus on their studies.”

Councillor Alison Evison, COSLA President said:

“Councils work hard to tackle barriers which can get in the way of young people fulfilling their potential in education. We are therefore pleased to be working with Scottish Government and the college and university sector to provide young people with sanitary products free in their schools.

“While the primary aim is to ensure no young person misses out on their education through lack of access to sanitary products, it will also contribute to a more open conversation and reducing the unnecessary stigma associated with periods.”

Patricia Gibson MP said:

“The SNP Government’s £5.2 million investment in free sanitary products will help female pupils and students in North Ayrshire and across Scotland.

“Basic sanitary provision is a right, not a privilege.

“The notion that anyone should struggle to buy essential hygiene products is simply not acceptable and we should be proud that Scotland is leading the way in the fight against period poverty.

“In addition to the commitment for those in education, the SNP Government is also providing targeted support for low income families.”