Period poverty project proves successful

Lauren Millard, aged 25 from Coseley, started the campaign to help young women in Dudley one year ago with the help of Faye Hall from Dudley Healthwatch and Young Health Champions.

She was referred to Faye by Just Straight Talk, who help a number of young people in the Black Country develop their skills.

At the time she was going through a difficult period in her life, so she wanted to create a project with Dudley YHC that would help other young people who suffer from mental health issues and fight period poverty and the stigma associated with periods.

Lauren said: "Since learning about the issues of period poverty and launching the campaign I've learnt a lot and it's given me something positive to focus on and I'm eternally grateful for the support I've had.

"My mental health has dramatically increased since I've been doing this and everyday I go home with a massive smile on my face knowing I've helped someone and made a difference."

Lauren has created 85 period packs so far which come in colourful drawstring bags. Each pack contains sanitary towels, tampons, sweets and a positive message for the recipient.

All of the items have been donated by residents and organisations.

Lauren's project has just had a boost from Dudley Citizens Advice Service who has donated £250 for Lauren to create 100 more packs.

The packs are given directly to youth organisations, family support workers, women's refuges and also schools to ensure they go to the people who need them most.

Faye Hall said: "So far, the response has been really positive and we're looking at ways to keep improving the packs as we go along and working out how we can distribute them to even more young women."

Her hard work is being recognised by other members of the community and she has been nominated for awards at Dudley's Volunteer Awards and Forging a Future award.

Faye added: "This project would not exist without Lauren and her hard work and dedication.

"It's great to know that we have such amazing young people in Dudley who are willing to help others and also the wider community, Lauren will try her hand at anything if she knows it will help people."

Currently Lauren is encouraging people to donate new pants and tights which will be added to the packs, she also has requested anyone who makes a donation leaves their contact details so she can send them a personalised, handwritten thank you letter.

Donations can be dropped off at the DY1 building on Stafford Street in Dudley.

For more information or to request packs contact Faye on Fayehall@dudleycvs.org.uk or Twitter @YHCDudley