SCOTLAND would become the first country to make period products freely available if MSPs vote for new legislation today.

Holyrood is set to vote on the Period Products (Free Provision) (Scotland) Bill, which intends to introduce a legal right of free access to items such as tampons and sanitary pads in public buildings.

Scottish Labour health spokeswoman Monica Lennon campaigned for the world-leading legislation to introduce free universal access to sanitary products, aiming to tackle period stigma and the effects of periods on education.

In February all parties backed a Bill put forward by Ms Lennon in its first test in the Holyrood chamber, with some amendments made by the government. 

The proposals mean that schools, colleges and universities would need to provide tampons and other items in toilets, with local councils also required to have a scheme available.

The new laws would also place a duty on government ministers to ensure that products are made available free of charge on a universal basis.

Her member’s Bill has now reached the final stage with Scottish government support, despite initial opposition and ministers arguing that the cost could greatly exceed the estimated £9.7 million a year.

Speaking ahead of the vote, Ms Lennon said: “We are in the final miles of a long journey and I am heartened by the support for the Period Products Bill.

“I am optimistic that we will complete that groundbreaking journey today.

“Scotland will not be the last country to make period poverty history — but it now has a chance to be the first.

“This law will ensure no-one has to go without essential period products.”

Ms Lennon’s campaign to end period poverty in Scotland began more than three years ago. 

The MSP said: “Thanks to a bold grassroots campaign and cross-party support, Scotland has already taken great strides to improve access to period products.

“Legislation is a world-leading opportunity to secure period dignity for all women, girls and people who menstruate.

“The campaign has been backed by a wide coalition, including trades unions, women’s organisations and charities.

“Thousands of supporters have played a part, including people who shared their experiences of period poverty, and I am grateful to them all.”