Oxford Brookes University Supporting Menstrual Equity
Oxford Brookes University joins forces with the Student Union in our shared commitment to menstrual equity. As Jennifer Weiss-Wolf stated in "Periods Gone Public," menstrual equity is about more than just access to products; it's about destigmatising menstruation and promoting awareness and education surrounding menstrual health. Together, we want to ensure that every member of our community has equal access to menstrual products and resources, regardless of financial constraints. Through awareness-raising, advocacy, and practical support services, we're working to create an inclusive environment where equity prevails.
At Oxford Brookes, we recognise that achieving menstrual equity requires sustained, collective effort. By standing working together, we're actively challenging the stigma surrounding menstruation and breaking down barriers to access.
We’ve recently seen a rise in incidents of vandalism in our campus toilets, including the deliberate misuse and disposal of menstrual products. This is not only wasteful and disrespectful, but it also places unnecessary strain on cleaning staff, facilities teams, and the wider university community.
Menstrual products are provided to support students and staff not for misuse or disposal in ways that cause blockages or damage.
We are reviewing how these products are distributed and used, but we need your help. Please:
Use the bins provided for period waste
Treat shared facilities with respect
Report vandalism or misuse if you see it
Together, we can maintain clean, safe, and inclusive spaces for everyone. Let’s all do our part.
The British Standard Institute (BSI) Using the BSI Standard on Menstruation and Menopause to Achieve Menstrual Equity in the Workplace Webinar took place on 30 May. If you missed the live session, you can watch a recording of the webinar below.
#MenstrualHygieneDay, we’re highlighting the importance of supporting menstrual health in the workplace with BS 30416.
The standard empowers organizations to create a supportive environment for employees experiencing menstruation, menstrual health and menopause. Oxford Brookes University's (OBU) implementation of BS 30416 showcases the impact of raising awareness, providing sustainable menstrual products, and fostering an inclusive culture.
Read our case study with BSI to see how BS 30416 can help organisations make meaningful changes and support menstrual health in the workplace: Oxford Brookes / BSI Case Study
Oxford Brookes University Launches Menstrual Equity Project
On 8 April 2024, Oxford Brookes University, in partnership with Brookes Union, unveiled the Menstrual Equity Project at the JHB Headington Forum. The launch was a resounding success, underscoring the University's commitment to gender inclusivity. Stay tuned for updates as we continue our work in promoting menstrual equity.
Electra Dottin, Sarah Howcutt, Maxine Fletcher, Jacob Callicott
Period Poverty in UK Higher Education:
Addressing Stigma and Empowering Students
By Laura Coryton 22 JAN 2024
Period poverty is a term that refers to the inability of individuals to access menstrual products, due to financial constraints, limited availability or stigma preventing them from seeking the essential products they need. This issue affects millions of people worldwide, including 36% of UK students. A lack of accessible menstrual products and the stigma surrounding menstruation can significantly impact students’ physical and mental health, as well as their academic success. In this article, we will explore period poverty rates in UK higher education, the impact of period stigma on students, and outline the strategies universities can adopt to combat this issue and empower students.
Read Full Story: Period Poverty in UK Higher Education: Addressing Stigma and Empowering Students
How to make reusable sanitary pads
By Amika George 07 MAY 2021
Sanitary pad making is easier than you may think, in fact, you’ll only need these 5 standard household items:
Plastic.
Scissors.
Needle and thread.
Blanket.
Cotton sheet.
These are the basic items you’ll need; you could always use a sewing machine instead of a needle and thread if you prefer.
Read Full Story: How to make reusable sanitary pads