Edinburgh University reduces supply of free period products in library bathrooms

The university has reduced the supply of free period products avaliable in the main university library.

Posters have been put up in various library bathrooms which read: “If you require period products they can be found on: Ground floor, first floor, second floor”.

This means that sanitary products are now avaliable in less than half of the main library’s bathrooms which has sparked concerns among many female students.

Lydia, a fourth-year classics student said: “This is something that will affect so many students and a lack in consistency of supply is really inconvenient. Making cuts on essential period products is stressful and makes it feel like the university doesn’t take these matters seriously.”

Concerns have also been raised on university related Reddit forums, where one poster said: “Many of you will have already noticed that the university has recently decided to restrict free period products in the Main Library, which were previously supplied on all floors to only select bathrooms.This is an accessibility issue for some of us.”

They also urged anyone who is unhappy with the decision to submit feedback to the university complaints forum.

The Period Products Act came into force in 2021. This means that anyone in need of period products should be easily able to get them for free. The Scottish Government was the first in the world to make period products free for all. It was introduced to reduce period poverty, especially in students and young people.

However, due to the reduction in supply in Edinburgh University buildings, there are concerns that the supply now won’t be sufficient for the number of female students who attend the university, making up  62 per cent of the student body.

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In regards to the reduction in supply of these essential products, a University of Edinburgh spokesperson told The Edinburgh Tab: “The university is proud to provide free and convenient access to period products in buildings across our campus.

“Any changes to avaliablity within specific toilet facilities will be communicated to those affected.

“Details about avaliability is also shared on our website, dedicated email channels and the PickupMyPeriod app.

“In all cases, we will remain in line with the Scottish Government’s guidelines, upholding our commitment to equality, dignity and inclusion.”

Syjil, VP Welfare for Edinburgh University Student Association (EUSA) told The Edinburgh Tab: “During my time as Women’s Liberation Officer, I helped campaign for better and more period product acces on campus alongside several society members and staff.

“We were sadly unable to complete the campaign due to university funding cuts, and so we asked that the University Estates Team ensure that avaliable period products were placed in visible locations and to adjust the supply ratio of pads to tampons so that more pads were available.”

They also told us the VP of Activities and Services and Women’s Liberation Officer are “working to ensure that period products, although they are in lower upply, are in accesible areas and are kept at a consisten supply, which for many buildings will mean they are available on ground floor bathrooms.

“John (VP Activities and Services) recently asked for an updated location list where period products are available which can be found here on the university website. 

“We are continuing our efforts to ensure that products are delivered at all sites, are visible, kept in steady supply, and accessible to all.”

If there aren’t products where they are supposed to be you can email [email protected] to let the university know to restock the supply.