7. Member Debate under Standing Order 11.21(iv): Period poverty and stigma

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 3:31 pm on 2 May 2018.

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Photo of Julie James Julie James Labour 3:31, 2 May 2018

I'm also delighted that this debate has been brought forward and that it's so cross-party across the Chamber. It's really great to see this essential matter get such publicity and backing from right across the Chamber, indeed. It is—I'm just going to repeat it because it's worth repeating—completely unacceptable that there are women and girls in Wales who are unable to go about their usual daily activities because they cannot afford to buy essential feminine hygiene products when they need them. It absolutely stands to reason that people who turn to food banks, because they can't afford to feed their family, therefore also can't afford other essentials. And it is, as many Members—I think all Members—have said, completely atrocious for people to have to make a choice between food and dignity. 

Many Members have also mentioned the research undertaken by Plan International, which gives an idea how widespread the problem is in the UK. Rhondda Cynon Taf has also been mentioned by a number of Members, and their research has been extremely useful in shining a light on the inadequate toilet and washing facilities for girls, and in coming up with some innovative solutions that they've put forward. I'm afraid to have to admit this in public—but I think it's worth admitting, and I hope Leanne Wood will help me out here—but I sat on a panel with the excellent young councillor, whose name has totally gone out of my head—