UCB strengthens its commitment to period dignity | News

November 2026

University College Birmingham's commitment to period dignity

By Claire Huggins

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University College Birmingham (UCB) has reaffirmed its commitment to period dignity, helping to ensure that periods do not become a barrier to studying, working or participating fully in university life.

Free period products are available to anyone who needs them, with additional items, including different product sizes, wipes and spare clothing, available by speaking to Reception staff across campus buildings.

The commitment forms part of UCB’s wider approach to building an inclusive, supportive and sustainable university community. Alongside the aim of providing environmentally conscious period products whenever possible, the University is working to improve access to trusted information, facilities and support, while helping people feel more comfortable talking about periods without embarrassment or stigma.

Supporting a more sustainable university community

UCB’s period dignity commitment complements its wider work towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The initiative supports good health and wellbeing by helping people manage their periods and related health conditions; providing quality education by reducing barriers to studying; fostering gender equality by challenging stigma and encouraging responsible consumption and production of the products.

“Our approach to sustainability is about creating lasting environmental and social value across our University community,” explained Ashlea Mallett, Head of Sustainability & Campus Services.

“Period dignity connects these priorities by helping people access the products and support they need, while enabling us to make more environmentally conscious choices. It is a practical example of how our sustainability strategy can improve everyday experiences and help advance our commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.”

"By providing free products, increasing understanding and making support easier to access, we are creating a culture in which people’s different experiences are recognised, and everyone is treated with compassion and respect."

Sophie Lester Health and nutrition lecturer

Period dignity as part of UCB’s equality, diversity and inclusion commitment

Period dignity is also closely aligned with UCB’s equality, diversity and inclusion work. Periods and menstrual health conditions can affect people’s wellbeing and ability to take part in education and working life; giving access to appropriate products, information and support is an integral part of creating an equitable university environment.

UCB fosters an evolving culture where different experiences are understood and respected, where both students and staff feel comfortable seeking support. The University is also committed to raising awareness of endometriosis and supporting those affected as an Endometriosis Friendly Employer.

“Period dignity is an integral part of our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion because everyone should be able to study, work and participate in university life without facing avoidable barriers, stigma or awkward and embarrassing conversations,” said Sophie Lester, UCB lecturer in health and nutrition.

“By providing free products, increasing understanding and making support easier to access, we are creating a culture in which people’s different experiences are recognised, and everyone is treated with compassion and respect.”

Recognising when additional support may be needed

Periods are a normal part of life, but they should not routinely prevent someone from studying, working, socialising or carrying out their usual activities. Anyone concerned about their period or experiencing a significant change from what is normal for them is encouraged to speak to a GP or healthcare professional.

UCB’s Student Health Practitioner, Aimee Chatfield, is based in Summer Row and can provide advice and guidance.

Wellbeing of Women symptom checker

The Wellbeing of Women is ‘the only UK charity funding all of women's reproductive and gynaecological health’.

They have developed a simple, free and easy-to-use tool to check your symptoms; their website explains:

‘If period pain or heavy bleeding is negatively impacting your life, our symptom checker can help.’

“The checker is a quick and easy tool for students who may be concerned that their periods are not 'normal',” explains Sophie Lester, lecturer in health and nutrition.

“It helps them understand their symptoms and automatically generates a letter they can take to their GP to support further investigation and advocate for their own experience.”

You can access more specific information on menstrual health conditions here.

Here to help you

Whatever your experience of periods and menstrual health, you do not have to manage concerns on your own. If something does not feel right, is affecting your studies, wellbeing or everyday life, support is available.

UCB students can speak confidentially with the University’s Student Health Practitioner for advice and guidance, contact their GP or another healthcare professional where appropriate.

Most importantly, there is no need to feel embarrassed about asking questions or seeking help. Periods and menstrual health are a normal part of life, and the University is committed to helping students feel informed, supported and treated with dignity.