Scotland is now set to become the first country in the world that provides free feminine hygiene products to all of their students.

The $6.6 million (£5.2 million) initiative will benefit roughly 400,000 students across all of the country’s schools, universities, and colleges.

Recent surveys have shown that one in four responding pupils have had trouble accessing sanitary products, while one in five participants have experienced “period poverty” in the past. The new scheme will ensure that Scottish students will no longer have to forgo their hygienic needs based on their income or social situation.

“In a country as rich as Scotland it’s unacceptable that anyone should struggle to buy basic sanitary products,” said communities secretary, Aileen Campbell, according to The Guardian.

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“I am proud that Scotland is taking this world-leading action to fight period poverty and I welcome the support of local authorities, colleges and universities in implementing this initiative.

“Our £5.2m investment will mean these essential products will be available to those who need them in a sensitive and dignified way, which will make it easier for students to full focus on their studies.”

Be Sure And Pass On The Positive News To Your Friends – Representative photo by The Period Blog, CC