Period poverty is a problem we often associate with developing countries – but it’s a very real problem in the UK too. That’s why Paycare has been working alongside the Wolves Foundation to help ensure people in the city can have safe and hygienic ways to deal with menstruation 🧡
It’s estimated one in ten girls (aged 14 to 21) can’t afford to buy menstrual products, and almost half have missed at least one day at school because of the issue. Campaigners also reported a rise in period poverty through the Covid-19 lockdown…
At the start of 2019, the Wolves Foundation – which our CEO Kevin Rogers is a Trustee with – began providing free sanitary products in the toilets at Molineux. With the stadium currently not open to fans because of the Coronavirus restrictions, the supply has been distributed to three local charities (The Homeless Period, Project GIVE and Good Shepherd), who will then give them to those in need 🙌
Kevin, who has also worked on the scheme with Motherwell FC who we proudly sponsor, said he was delighted to support the campaign.
“I am not sure there is a realisation that this is an issue in this day and age, but we know many people are struggling financially at the moment, and these donations provide vital support to many young women across the region.
“With fans unfortunately not being able to access Molineux at the moment, it is a really good idea to make another donation directly out in the local community, via three fantastic charities who will be able to identify those in need of support as we work together to tackle this issue and improve people’s health and wellbeing.”
Foundation Health Manager Rachel Smith says:
“We have been delighted to work with Paycare on this important project, particularly as period poverty is said to be on the rise in Britain with many people unable to afford sanitary products.
“We have made sanitary products available free of charge to supporters visiting Molineux for matches or other events, as well as making several donations to different charities over the last 18 months which they can then pass on to those who need them.
“With spectators currently not able to visit Molineux, we decided to collect up our current stock and pass it on to The Homeless Period, Project GIVE Wolverhampton and Good Shepherd.
“Those three charities carry out some really important work in the city with people who are vulnerable or suffering from poverty, and will be able to make sure the products are accessible to those who may otherwise be struggling to afford them.”
Lucy Palin, co-founder of Project GIVE, has thanked the Foundation and Paycare for their support.
“The pandemic hit our stock hard with so many people out of work and not able to access the free products we provided to schools, local organisations and businesses across Wolverhampton. This replenishment of stock means so much to us and the people we help on a daily basis – thanks so much Wolves Foundation!” 🧡🐺
It means so much to all the team at Paycare to be able to support those in need during these challenging times. Our Community really is at the heart of everything we do at Paycare and we couldn’t be prouder to support our local charities – and these testing times have certainly highlighted the need that’s out there 🧡
Stay happy, stay safe! 😊