6
Accepted
While take up of the period product scheme is high there are still some institutions...
Recommendation
While take up of the period product scheme is high there are still some institutions that have not engaged. The Government should seek to understand why some schools and colleges have not participated in the scheme and encourage them to do so. The scheme should be extended indefinitely. The Government should also explore extending access points beyond schools and colleges to other settings. (Recommendation, Paragraph 38)
Government Response Summary
The government accepts the recommendation, committing to investigate reasons for non-participation in the period product scheme and actively encourage engagement. It will also extend the scheme indefinitely and explore expanding access points beyond schools and colleges within the refreshed Women's Health Strategy.
Government Response
Accepted
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
The Government accepts recommendation 6. The government is committed to ensuring that all pupils have access to period products when they need them. The Period Product Scheme, which provides free period products to schools and colleges, has seen high take-up rates since its introduction. The government will investigate the reasons why some schools and colleges have not participated in the scheme and will actively encourage them to do so. This will include targeted outreach and providing information about the benefits of the scheme. The government also recognises the importance of extending access to period products beyond schools and colleges. The refreshed Women’s Health Strategy will explore options for expanding access points to other settings, such as community centres and youth clubs, to ensure that all women and girls have access to the products they need. The government is committed to extending the Period Product Scheme indefinitely to ensure continued access to free period products for pupils across England.
Source
Committee
Women and Equalities Committee
Report
12th Report – Menstrual health of girls and young women
04 Mar 2026
HC 1265
Addressee Bodies
Government Equalities Office
Timeline
Recommendation age
0.4 yrs
Report published
04 Mar 2026