Lifting the lid on period poverty in higher education: a student engagement perspective

Abstract

In 2018/19, Liverpool John Moores University became the first university in England to offer free menstrual products on campus.  This paper shares insights from the project – called The Free Period – which was established to tackle period poverty, or menstrual hygiene management (MHM).  The authors reflect on student engagement as a significant proportion of menstruators had missed classes owing to period poverty.  The paper highlights the need for better dialogue and communication to: improve data; tackle stigma and taboos; and cultivate healthier relationships on campus.