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Problems with periods in school included embarrassment, stigma, skipping classes, being “caught” without product, cost, lack of knowledge, and discomfort.
A program to offer free period products to school students will expand nationwide beginning in June.
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and Associate Minister for Education Jan Tinetti made the announcement at Fairfield College in Hamiton on Thursday.
The school is one of 15 schools and kura in Waikato, which was part of the period product access pilot program since the third quarter of last year.
“Young people should not miss out on their education for something that is a normal part of life for half the population,” Ardern said.
“Removing barriers to healthy and active educational outcomes for children and youth is an important part of the Government’s Youth and Wellness Strategy.”
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Ardern said student feedback was that vintage products should be available to all who need them, when they need them.
“The positive response from schools and students to the pilot has encouraged us to expand the initiative to all schools and kura in New Zealand.”
Around 3,200 young people received vintage products during the pilot.
Minister Tinetti said that problems with periods at school included embarrassment, stigma, skipping classes, being ‘caught’ without product, cost, lack of knowledge and discomfort.
“Feedback from the pilot noted that providing options was important, both in the types of products and in the way they are accessed. The students also said they wanted information on menstruation, menstruation products and other practical items to manage their menstruation, such as tracking and knowing when and who to turn to for help. “
The Ministry of Education will work with providers to manage a gradual implementation of the scheme, with period products available towards the end of the second quarter for schools and kura that enroll in March this year. Those schools and kura that do not initially choose to take the initiative will continue to be able to choose to participate in the initiative at a later date.
“Offering free products for the period in school is one way that the government can directly address poverty, help increase school attendance and have a positive impact on the well-being of children,” Ardern said.
“We want to see better participation, learning and behavior, fewer youth missing school due to their period, and fewer financial hardships among the families of participating students.”
In 2019, the Scottish government agreed to fund free menstrual products for young people in schools, colleges and universities across the country, and in 2020 England, Wales and parts of Canada followed suit.
