Flow Happy CIC in London: A Mission to End Period Inequity

In 14 London boroughs and over 45 locations, we’re providing free menstrual products to those who need them most. But our work isn’t done yet—our vision is to ensure that no one in the city has to choose between buying period products or essentials like food.

Meet Yasmin, a university student who was caught off guard when her period started during a lecture. She hadn’t budgeted for extra products that month, leaving her stressed and embarrassed. Or take Sarah, a mum of four teenage daughters whose life turned upside down during the pandemic. Job losses and rising costs made it impossible to afford period products for her family.

They’re not alone. Across the UK, 21% of women and menstruating people now struggle to afford period products—a shocking increase from 12% just last year.

For those living on tight budgets, a single unexpected period can tip the balance. With your help, we can ensure that period products are always available to those who need them, wherever and whenever they need them.

Let’s bring dignity, relief, and confidence to thousands more. Join us in tackling period poverty today.

One mother, already receiving free nappies for her baby, revealed she had to use them as makeshift sanitary pads because she couldn’t afford proper menstrual products. Others have resorted to using tissue paper in desperation. These heartbreaking stories shine a light on a critical issue, no one should be forced to manage their period in such undignified ways. Menstrual products are not a luxury, they are essential.

These stories sparked a powerful response from Londoners, united in saying, "No more." Period poverty is not just a personal struggle, it is a violation of dignity and a profound social injustice. Our mission is unwavering, no woman or menstruating person should have to face their period without access to free, safe, and reliable products. Together, we can end period poverty and restore dignity for all.. BBC Article

Education, Shame, and Stigma

The impact of period poverty extends far beyond the immediate struggle to access products, it disrupts education and fuels the silence surrounding periods. For many young people, the inability to afford menstrual products means missing out on school, sports, and extracurricular activities. This isn't just a short-term issue; it has long-term consequences for their academic performance, self-esteem, and future opportunities. When girls and menstruating individuals fall behind, the gap only widens, perpetuating cycles of inequality.

But the challenge isn’t just about products, it’s about breaking the silence. Talking openly about periods is essential to removing the shame and stigma that so many feel. Education plays a crucial role in normalising conversations about menstruation. When young people, teachers, parents, and workplaces have the tools to discuss periods confidently and respectfully, it shifts the narrative from one of embarrassment to empowerment.

Inclusive education is key. We aim to create spaces where everyone, regardless of gender, age, or background, feels comfortable learning about menstruation. By addressing myths and misinformation, we not only empower menstruators but also equip others to understand and support them. These conversations need to happen everywhere: in schools, community centres, homes, and workplaces.

When we normalise periods through education, we foster a culture of respect and understanding. Together, we can ensure that periods are seen for what they are—a natural, healthy part of life, not something to be hidden, ashamed of, or feared. This isn’t just about fighting period poverty; it’s about building a society where no one is left behind because of a biological function.

Let’s break the cycle of silence and stigma, one conversation at a time.

Our menstrual health exhibition in Hammersmith Broadway

Our Vision

Our vision is clear and powerful: we aim to make free period products accessible within a 0.5-mile radius in public spaces across London. To achieve this, we need to place products in 777 public spaces, from libraries to community centres, ensuring that no woman or menstruating person is ever left without the dignity of managing their period safely and comfortably.

This is more than a campaign; it’s a movement. Together, we can create a London where stories like Sarah’s, a mother struggling to provide basic necessities for her daughters are no longer a reality. Period dignity isn’t a luxury; it’s a right.

Join us in this mission. Your donation can help bring us closer to our goal and make a lasting impact on the lives of women, girls, and menstruating individuals across the city. Together, we can put an end to period poverty and ensure no one is left behind.

-Locations where we offer free period products

Please donate and be part of this vital mission.

Thank you for your support.

Flow Happy CIC