The money schools get from the Department of Education to provide free period products has been cut by more than 40%.
In 2021, the Stormont Executive authorised a three-year pilot programme to provide complimentary menstrual products in all Northern Ireland schools. This programme was designed to address “period dignity” in schools and reduce the stigma and poverty associated with periods. Unfortunately, funding for this programme has been cut by more than 40 percent, making it much more difficult for schools to provide these items.
Jackie Bartley is the principal of the over 1,000-student St Genevieve’s High School in Belfast. As a result of this reduction in funding, the school will not be able to access as many menstrual products, according to her. Additionally, in an effort to save money, other programmes for disadvantaged students have been discontinued.
The Department of Education has revealed how much each school will receive in 2023-24 to provide complimentary menstrual products. The allocations were determined based on the number of students and the number of minors eligible for free meals at each school. However, total funding has decreased to £243,000, a significant decrease from the £413,786 allocated to institutions in the previous academic year.
Previous research suggests that schools should do more to eliminate the stigma associated with periods and period poverty. Although the Department of Education is attempting to save money everywhere, it is unclear why such a minor sum has been targeted for reductions. As additional budget cutbacks are anticipated in the coming weeks and months, school personnel are concerned about the future.
This reduction in funding for free period products in schools in Northern Ireland occurs at a time when period poverty is still a significant issue for many individuals. It is anticipated that this programme and other initiatives will assist those who have difficulty obtaining period products and eliminate the stigma associated with periods.
