Overview

This bill aims to ensure free access to period products for everyone in need in England and Wales. It establishes a national scheme to provide these products, mandating their availability in various public places and institutions, including schools, universities, and specified public service buildings.

Description

The bill creates a legal right to free period products. The Secretary of State will establish a "period products scheme" outlining how this right is exercised. This scheme will involve local authorities, specified public-facing bodies, and other designated entities. The scheme may incorporate a voucher system requiring proof of identity (name and part of postcode, or alternative specified information) to obtain products. The process must be free, practical, and accessible, potentially allowing for proxy collection or delivery (though delivery charges may apply in certain circumstances deemed reasonable). The scheme must ensure a reasonable choice of products and prevent abuse.

Education and Public Services

Schools, universities, and colleges are required to provide free period products in their toilets. Specified public service bodies (identified by the Secretary of State after consultation) must also make them available free of charge in their premises. The Secretary of State can issue regulations to guide implementation.

Government Spending

The bill does not specify exact figures, but the Secretary of State will have the power to make payments to local authorities, public bodies, education providers, and other entities involved in the scheme to cover the costs of providing free period products.

Groups Affected

• People who menstruate: Will gain access to free period products.
• Local authorities: Will be responsible for providing period products under the scheme and may receive government funding.
• Schools, universities, and colleges: Must provide free period products in their facilities.
• Specified public service bodies: Designated by the Secretary of State, these bodies will be responsible for providing free products in their facilities.
• Businesses supplying period products: May see increased demand.
• UK Government: Will incur costs related to the scheme's funding.

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