Period Products - Statement on Exercise of Functions
The Period Products (Free Provision) (Scotland) Act 2021 received Royal Assent on 12th January 2021. The Act requires independent schools to ensure period products are provided free of charge to anyone who needs them during term time on their premises. It is the world's first legislation to make it mandatory for all independent schools to provide sanitary products for menstruation.
The Act states:
Everyone in Scotland who menstruates should have reasonably convenient access to period products, free of charge, as and when required.
We must make products reasonably easy to obtain, we must try to ensure dignity is preserved and respected and offer a reasonable choice of types of products (1 type of tampon, 1 type of sanitary pad and 1 reusable product).
Recipients should not be required to ask for products, justify why they need them, or any limit placed on the number of products recipients can receive. Independent schools have a duty to make period products available free of charge for anyone who needs them, and in their role as education providers, make period products available at no cost in school buildings.
Schools are also required to publish a Statement on how they will exercise their functions under the Act. The statement must be prepared in consultation with relevant individuals, groups, and organisations.
George Watson’s College Statement of Function
George Watson’s College ensures that:
- All period products are provided free of charge and reasonably easy to obtain, with a choice of single use and reusable products offered including single use pads, washable period pants, single use tampons and menstrual cups
- Products are available in the Senior School throughout term time
George Watson’s College has ensured there is no limit to the number of products a pupil can access. There is no requirement to ask for products and they are freely available to collect within toilets. Staff monitor and refresh stock regularly. The service is promoted via our Nursing Team.