The Homeless Period - Wolverhampton has been in operation since January 2018, becoming constituted in July 2018. Our overall aim is to reduce period poverty in Wolverhampton via the collection and distribution of sanitary products, underwear, wipes and toiletries. By doing this we aim to increase school attendance and improve the lives, health and well-being of women and girls experiencing/at risk of period poverty. In addition to the distribution of essential items we deliver educational support and social action projects within schools, to increase young people's awareness of period poverty, remove the stigma associated with menstruation and provide young people with the opportunity to contribute to the wider community. We are run by a team of dedicated volunteers and managed by a Board of Trustees. We are reliant on the generous donations of individuals, organisations and businesses across the city, but now require funding to extend our reach and the support we provide.

What we'll deliver:

• Reduce Period Poverty in Wolverhampton
• Reduce the number of girls missing school due to period poverty
• Remove the stigma associated wth menstruation via education
• Provide Social Action projects for young people
• Add to the evidence base in the city by collecting data on period poverty

Why it's a great idea:

Research and data from across the UK shows that 1 in 10 teenage girls and large but unknown numbers of women struggle to afford sanitary products, which has a huge impact on their lives. Although data is limited regardin the extent of Period Poverty, may women and girls report being unable to afford sanitary products and improvise with socks and tissue or simply missing school or not leaving the house during their periods. We believe periods are hard enough (especially for homeless women with no access to basic amentities) without having to worry about affording sanitary products and keeping yourself clean and healthy. Research shows that women and girls experiencing period poverty are more likely to suffer from anxiety and depression and have low self-esteem and confidence. We believe this project is a good idea as by reducing period poverty we are improving the health and well-being of women and girls, improving school attendance and supporting the education of young people.

Steps to get it done:

• Collect and distribute 1,000 packs of sanitary items
• Develop 20 collection points across the city
• Recruit 10 volunteers to assist with collection and distribution
• Work with 3 schools to deliver education and social action projects

N/A