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WQ.462/2023
WRITTEN QUESTION TO THE MINISTER FOR SOCIAL SECURITY
BY DEPUTY M.R. SCOTT OF ST. BRELADE
QUESTION SUBMITTED ON MONDAY 13th NOVEMBER 2023 ANSWER TO BE TABLED ON MONDAY 20th NOVEMBER 2023
Question
“With regard to the free period products scheme, will the Minister advise whether consideration has been given, or is to be given, to targeting distribution by either –
- offering support to those with identified period poverty rather than supplying products in schools and public toilets; or
- the provision of vouchers for the purchase of period products, or tokens providing access to dispensing machines in public toilets, to those with identified period poverty?”
Answer
- Yes, consideration has been given to targeting distribution to those with identified period poverty. The main objective of the pilot, however, was to have products available to islanders on the basis of need, and therefore a decision was taken not to restrict provision or add in barriers such as means testing. Seeking to identify period poverty would also not have met our objectives of ensuring dignity and reducing stigma relating to periods. As well as making period products available to collect in a wide range of locations, our pilot has included engagement with organisations and charities (such as foodbanks) who work with people who may encounter period poverty.
- Yes, consideration was given to the provision of vouchers and tokens as part of the initial scoping of the project, but we chose not to proceed with that model. Vouchers/tokens add an unnecessary further step to obtaining products when our aim was to make it as easy as possible.