Four in five support free period products in NI, but almost half unaware of scheme

More than four in five people in Northern Ireland believe period products should be available free of charge to everyone who needs them, according to newly published research.

However, the findings also reveal that almost half of respondents were unaware of the existing free period products scheme before taking part in the survey.

The Executive Office published its Attitudes to the Free Period Products Scheme in Northern Ireland 2025 report on Thursday 8 October 2026, drawing on responses to the Northern Ireland Life and Times survey.

Strong support for free period products

The research found that 81% of respondents agreed period products should be available free of charge to anyone who needs them.

Despite that level of support, only 53% said they were aware of the existing scheme before participating in the survey.

The findings highlight a gap between public support for free provision and awareness of the arrangements already in place across Northern Ireland.

Public libraries backed as collection points

Almost two-thirds of respondents (63%) agreed that public libraries are suitable locations for distributing free period products.

The scheme allows people to obtain period products free of charge through libraries across Northern Ireland, including mobile libraries.

Products can be collected for personal use or on behalf of someone else, with different types available according to individual needs.

There is no requirement to demonstrate financial hardship, and people can take as many products as they need.

Differences in awareness and support

The survey also identified differences in attitudes between demographic groups.

Female respondents were significantly more likely than male respondents to be aware of the scheme and to support both the provision of free period products and their distribution through public libraries.

Awareness and support were generally lower among respondents aged 65 and over, with statistically significant differences identified across several age groups.

Free provision introduced in 2024

Free period products became available through the scheme on 13 May 2024, following the introduction of the Period Products (Free Provision) Act (Northern Ireland) 2022.

The legislation aims to ensure that period products are accessible to everyone who needs them, regardless of their financial circumstances.

The Executive Office is responsible for arrangements to provide free products on a universal basis in appropriate locations.

The latest findings provide an insight into public attitudes towards the scheme and awareness of its availability.

Where to get free period products

Free period products are available from public libraries across Northern Ireland, including mobile libraries.

People can collect products for themselves or on behalf of someone else, without having to prove eligibility or financial need.

Information about collection points is available through Libraries NI and nidirect.