News
October 20, 2025
Edinburgh University cuts free period product access to save money
Free sanitary products will now be available on only three floors of the main library as the institution looks to make £140 million in cuts
**Edinburgh University Cuts Free Period Product Access to Save Money**
Edinburgh University students are facing reduced access to free sanitary products as the institution grapples with significant budget cuts. In a move aimed at saving money, the university has restricted the availability of free period products to only three floors of the main library, sparking concern among students and advocates for period equity.
The decision comes as the university aims to make substantial savings of £140 million across various departments and services. While the university has not explicitly stated the exact amount saved by limiting access to period products, the move is indicative of the widespread cost-cutting measures being implemented.
Previously, free sanitary products were available in multiple locations across the university campus, including restrooms in academic buildings and student union facilities. This widespread accessibility ensured that students could readily access these essential items, removing a potential barrier to education and well-being.
Now, students will need to visit specific floors of the main library to obtain free period products. This change raises concerns about convenience and accessibility, particularly for students who may not be able to easily reach the library due to distance, mobility issues, or time constraints.
The move has drawn criticism from student representatives and organizations advocating for period dignity. They argue that access to period products is a fundamental right and that limiting availability disproportionately affects students from low-income backgrounds who may struggle to afford these necessities. Critics emphasize that restricting access undermines the progress made in recent years to combat period poverty and destigmatize menstruation.
The university maintains that it remains committed to supporting students' well-being, despite the financial challenges. However, the decision to reduce access to free period products has fueled debate about the university's priorities and the impact of austerity measures on student life. Students are now calling for greater transparency and consultation regarding future cost-cutting decisions that may affect their access to essential resources and services. The long-term impact of this decision on student attendance and overall well-being remains to be seen.
Edinburgh University students are facing reduced access to free sanitary products as the institution grapples with significant budget cuts. In a move aimed at saving money, the university has restricted the availability of free period products to only three floors of the main library, sparking concern among students and advocates for period equity.
The decision comes as the university aims to make substantial savings of £140 million across various departments and services. While the university has not explicitly stated the exact amount saved by limiting access to period products, the move is indicative of the widespread cost-cutting measures being implemented.
Previously, free sanitary products were available in multiple locations across the university campus, including restrooms in academic buildings and student union facilities. This widespread accessibility ensured that students could readily access these essential items, removing a potential barrier to education and well-being.
Now, students will need to visit specific floors of the main library to obtain free period products. This change raises concerns about convenience and accessibility, particularly for students who may not be able to easily reach the library due to distance, mobility issues, or time constraints.
The move has drawn criticism from student representatives and organizations advocating for period dignity. They argue that access to period products is a fundamental right and that limiting availability disproportionately affects students from low-income backgrounds who may struggle to afford these necessities. Critics emphasize that restricting access undermines the progress made in recent years to combat period poverty and destigmatize menstruation.
The university maintains that it remains committed to supporting students' well-being, despite the financial challenges. However, the decision to reduce access to free period products has fueled debate about the university's priorities and the impact of austerity measures on student life. Students are now calling for greater transparency and consultation regarding future cost-cutting decisions that may affect their access to essential resources and services. The long-term impact of this decision on student attendance and overall well-being remains to be seen.
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