Bumper collection of 13,500 'period pamper packs' donated to Burnley hub for vulnerable girls and women

The donations comes from the Female Health and Hygiene Project, a scheme ran from the BEST Centre in Hapton, which works with local organisations to deliver complimentary sanitary period packs.

The team hopes to give back to the community while challenging stigmas and raising awareness around the often-taboo topic of period poverty.

Alongside other essentials, such as food parcels, nappies and household products provided by Burnley Together, these packs, which are funded by a National Lottery grant and donations from the public, provide important items such as tampons, sanitary pads, body sprays, intimate wipes and deodorants.

This helps to ensure periods can be managed with dignity and confidence for those who may have otherwise gone without due to financial constraints.

Pre-covid, period poverty was a big issue in the UK. Sadly, these levels have risen dramatically in the past year, with one in three girls aged 14 -21 unable to afford suitable products according to Plan International UK, the organisation that campaigns for children's rights and equality for women.

This leaves many women and girls facing additional barriers and exclusion from education and job opportunities due to a lack of access to safe, hygienic products.

Sam Wright, founder of The Female Health and Hygiene Project said: "I started the project to help the women of Burnley and surrounding areas gain access to the period products that they deserve to have.

"Having access to sanitary products can help with mental health, job prospects, social aspects of life, together with education.

“I wanted to give women a confidence boost and let them know that whatever they need there is always someone in the wings ready and waiting to help, we just have to come together and talk.

"If 10% of the women feel that their overall wellbeing has improved because of our period pamper packs then I know I have done my job.

"As a female in a close community, I am really proud and can say that Covid-19 has started something for Burnley that will leave a female legacy for a lifetime."

Alicia Foley, who is community investment manager at Calico Homes and Burnley Together, said they were very grateful for the donations and the work that The Female Health and Hygiene is doing in the area.

She said: "Some people find themselves facing a harsh choice between buying food or sanitary products – a reality that many find unimaginable. These vital packs really do help to make a real difference to people’s lives.”

To find out more about Burnley Together, or access to support, please visitwww.burnleytogether.org.uk