A newly-expanded university initiative, Project Period, aims to address the issue of period poverty and promote open and inclusive conversations around menstruation and menopause.

Project Period provides free sanitary products across campus, as well as promoting education and awareness about the topic.

The university has also taken steps to create a more inclusive environment by integrating discussions around menstrual and menopausal health into the curriculum. This will help to break down the stigma surrounding these topics and promote a culture of inclusivity and understanding.

As part of Project Period, the university will be offering workshops and events that educate and raise awareness about the challenges faced by those who menstruate and go through menopause.

The goal is to create a supportive and informed community, where everyone can feel comfortable talking about these important and often underrepresented issues.

Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and People, Professor Katherine Linehan said: “Project Period is a testament to our commitment to creating an inclusive and equitable environment for all members of the campus community.

I’m glad the university is taking proactive and important steps in addressing period poverty and breaking down the taboo surrounding menstruation and menopause.”

Project Period was launched in 2020 in the Biodiscovery Institute by Professor Chris Denning and colleagues. It has since spread across University Park, Jubilee, Sutton Bonington, King’s Meadow and Queen’s Medical Centre, Derby and City Hospital campuses. In the coming weeks we’ll be asking staff and students to suggest additional campus locations for free period products.

All products handed out as part of Project Period are made using sustainable materials, helping to reduce plastic packaging and protecting the environment.

You can help Project Period by spreading the word and sharing locations where free period products are available.