Problem: In the UK, some young women in our schools are finding it difficult to access sanitary products.
Result: Tearful panics in the loo. Wadded up toilet roll. Anxious embarrassment. Missed lessons.
Missed education.
Solution: Women from the community sponsor and stock a red box filled with sanitary products and spare pants. The Red Box will support disadvantaged young women throughout their entire period.
The box is kept at school with the Nurse, in reception or with an appropriate member of staff. Plain paperbags are included for discretion. Of course, our schools are already on the case and stock a limited supply of sanitary towels to cover emergencies, but what makes this project special is that we aim to ensure enough supplies to get her through her entire period.
Want to take part or start your own Red Box Community?
This is an informal group of female friends, colleagues or neighbours who sponsor a red box in a nearby school. Each member agrees to donate one pack of sanitary towels every month plus some pants twice a year. Backed up by some light fundraising, this is a simple, affordable way for the community to work together to solve a straight forward problem.
Would you like to help in other ways? We are asking the wards around Fieldhead if they would like to help by having a collection box in the ward office and asking for donations.
This is a simple scheme, made with love for the young women in our community.
Why? We believe that a young woman's education shapes her future and her dignity is our responsibility.