Scotland has become the first country in the world to legislate for the right to access sanitary products free of charge.
The law, known as the Period Products Act, came into effect on Monday (August 15) and obliges local authorities and education providers to offer the items for nothing.
The legislation had been waiting to enter force since 2020, the year it was passed at Holyrood.
Its triggering comes as a major boost for low-income households in Scotland, with some women from having been forced to go without sanitary products in order to pay bills and buy food since the cost-of-living crisis has squeezed personal finances.
Scottish Labour MSP Monica Lennon, who had campaigned for the law change, said: “Local authorities and partner organisations have worked hard to make the legal right to access free period products a reality.
“This is another big milestone for period dignity campaigners and grassroots movements which shows the difference that progressive and bold political choices can make.
“As the cost-of-living crisis takes hold, the Period Products Act is a beacon of hope which shows what can be achieved when politicians come together for the good of the people we serve.”
Shona Robison, Scotland’s social justice secretary, hailed the milestone as a “proud” one and “fundamental to equality and dignity” in Scotland.
Robison said: “We are proud to be the first national government in the world to take such action. This is more important than ever at a time when people are making difficult choices due to the cost-of-living crisis.
“We never want anyone to be in a position where they cannot access period products.”
