Hundreds of protesters are expected to gather opposite Downing Street on Wednesday to demand government action on period poverty. The demonstration, organised by the #FreePeriods movement, will see Richmond Terrace turn red between 5pm and 8pm as people of all genders, races, ages and backgrounds wave banners and call for change.
The issue gained public attention in December 2016 following the release of Ken Loach's film I, Daniel Blake, which depicted a struggling single mother stealing sanitary towels. In March, reports emerged of schoolgirls in Leeds missing school because they could not afford menstrual products, with some resorting to using socks, tissues, old T-shirts or newspaper.
Amika George, founder of the #FreePeriods campaign, said the government has failed to respond to the crisis. Her campaign calls for free menstrual products to be provided to children receiving free school meals, who are most likely to face period poverty. George described menstrual care as a human right and urged the government to address the fact that some British girls are deprived of it.
The protest will feature speakers including model and activist Adwoa Aboah, Labour MP Jess Phillips, and political commentator Ayesha Hazarika. There will also be opportunities to sign a petition and donate to charities. Organisers hope to break the silence and stigma surrounding menstruation, which they say prevents girls from seeking help.
