Periods are natural. Yet, for too many women and girls, they come with shame, silence, and struggle. Breaking the Cycle is a campaign by Lancashire Women and Media Village, designed to raise awareness of period poverty, challenge stigma, and ensure no one is left without essential menstrual products.

What is Period Poverty?

Period poverty affects those who can’t afford or access sanitary products, forcing them to use unsafe alternatives or miss out on education, work, and daily life. Recent data shows that 21% of people who menstruate in the UK are now struggling to afford period products, amounting to an estimated 2.8 million people.

Why This Matters

• No one should have to choose between buying food or period products.
• Menstruation should never be a reason for shame, embarrassment, or exclusion.
• Open conversations help break taboos and normalise periods.

How We’re Breaking the Cycle

• Providing access to free period products in community spaces.
• Educating and empowering people to talk openly about menstruation.
• Challenging outdated attitudes and breaking the stigma.