Council launches online ordering service for free sanitary products

East Ayrshire Council has launched an online ordering service providing free access to sanitary products for any resident across East Ayrshire who needs them.

It’s all part of the Council’s drive to end period poverty backed by funding from the Scottish Government. Many girls and women are unable to meet the relatively high cost of basic sanitary products, meaning they might miss school or work, lose confidence or have to forego opportunities because they can’t afford to buy them.

Residents can now receive two months’ worth of Hey Girls period products at a time by filling out an online form at https://eastayrshi.re/FSP. Alternatively, the products can be ordered by phone for those who do not have internet access. Please call 01563 554400.

Hey Girls is an award-winning social enterprise organisation which provides ethically sourced biodegradable products at cost price. It aims to eliminate the stigma of period poverty with the promise that for every product bought, they will provide one free to a woman/girl in need.

Councillor Clare Maitland, Cabinet Member for Equalities, Inclusion and Poverty, said: “With many premises that usually provide free access to sanitary products being closed due to Covid-19, we decided to launch this online service which means that the products are delivered direct to your door.

“It’s so important that sanitary products are still accessible during this time for all members of our community. In this day and age, no one should have to suffer the indignity of not having the means to meet their basic needs so I would encourage anyone who needs this free access to go online or call us to place your order.”

The online form should be completed on a per person basis. If there are multiple people in a household who require products, please complete one form for each person. Products may take up to three weeks to arrive depending on demand. If you have any queries please email PPP.Division@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

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