Period dignity

Conference notes that for too long, women and men have shied away from talking about periods.

Conference believes that, by changing perceptions, we can tackle some of the wider issues around periods. This Conference believes that access to sanitary products in the workplace and schools should be as normal as having access to things such as toilet roll.

Conference agrees that women should be entitled to have period dignity. By making changes in our workplaces, our places of education, and in society, women will be able to have a positive period knowing that they are able to access sanitary products. Having a period is natural and should not be a source of awkwardness for anyone.

Conference notes the ‘Period Dignity’ campaign by Unite the Union and agrees that the FBU should be aiming for similar within the Fire Service. Conference supports the aims of the ‘Period Dignity’ campaign, which are to;

• change attitudes towards periods – periods should not be embarrassing for anyone

• employers to provide sanitary products in the workplace – this to be the norm for every

workplace

• places of education to provide sanitary products for students and employees – this to be

the norm so that young women’s education does not suffer

• ensure VAT is removed from all sanitary products

• support Period Poverty campaign groups. Women and young girls should have access to

these vital products. Nobody should face period poverty.

Conference therefore agrees that the relevant Brigade Official will raise this campaign with their Fire Service employers, with a position that the second bullet point is enacted within their fire service. Conference also agrees to support period poverty groups wherever possible. This will be done by Conference 2020.