Leicester College is addressing issues of period poverty by offering free sanitary products to its 4,500-strong female student population.

Recent research from phs Group, the leading hygiene services provider in the UK, Spain and Ireland, has suggested that the inability to access period products can have a detrimental impact on learners’ attendance and academic achievement.

To respond to the growing period equality agenda, Leicester College will provide a range of sanitary products that will reflect all cultural and religious considerations for its diverse student population. The products will be available for free to students at the reception of each campus, through mentors, student engagement teams and the student union, or can be ordered online by emailing info@leicestercollege.ac.uk.

Melanie Arrowsmith-Kemp, Head of Student Engagement at Leicester College said: “Period poverty existed pre-lockdown but the financial circumstances resulting from the restrictions have exacerbated the issue. Consequently, we’re stepping up and ensuring that all female students who need it, have access to a full range of products.”