Free emergency period products available at Torbay Hospital thanks to UNISON donation

Emergency period products are now available free of charge in public toilets across Torbay Hospital for visitors, volunteers and staff to use as needed.

The initiative, led by staff at the hospital, has been made possible thanks to a generous donation from public service union UNISON, which will fund the supply of products for the next 12 months.

Over recent months, dedicated colleagues at Torbay Hospital have been personally purchasing and stocking period products in several accessible toilets to support those caught short. Now, with the support of UNISON, the scheme is secured for the coming year.

UNISON’s contribution was welcomed as a timely gesture ahead of International Women’s Day, recognising the importance of dignity and inclusion in the workplace and healthcare settings.

Torbay Health UNISON branch secretary Alison Evans said: “UNISON is very proud to support this initiative. It feels particularly fitting that we are able to make this donation as we celebrate International Women’s Day.

“We hope that these products will be helpful for visitors, volunteers or colleagues who run out of period products while at Torbay Hospital. Periods are a normal part of life and providing free period products for emergency situations can make a big difference to people’s comfort and wellbeing.”

The hospital also paid tribute to staff members Tracy Wood and Julia Baker, who recognised the need and took action to make a positive difference.