Written by Kelly Hill, CEO & Founder, The Early Years Company
As nursery managers and owners, the well-being of your staff is crucial to the success of your setting. Ensuring they feel valued and supported in all areas of their lives is key to building a positive working environment. However, one issue that may not always be openly discussed but has a significant impact on staff well-being is period poverty and hygiene poverty. These challenges can affect employees' attendance, productivity, and overall mental health, yet they often remain invisible.
Period poverty refers to the inability to afford sanitary products, while hygiene poverty encompasses a wider range of issues, including the lack of access to basic hygiene products like deodorant, shampoo, and toothpaste. According to a report by the charity Plan International UK, 1 in 10 girls in the UK has been unable to afford period products, and hygiene poverty affects an estimated 3.2 million adults across the country. For many, these issues are compounded by the rising cost of living, making it harder for individuals to maintain their dignity and comfort.
As a nursery leader, it’s important to recognise how period and hygiene poverty can affect your staff and how you can provide support.
Understanding the Impact on Staff
Staff who are unable to afford essential hygiene products may struggle with feelings of embarrassment, shame, or even fear of being judged by their colleagues. This can lead to reduced self-esteem, increased stress, and even absenteeism. Research by the charity In Kind Direct reveals that 1 in 5 UK adults experiences hygiene poverty, and 1 in 3 has had to cut down on hygiene essentials due to financial strain. For staff working in early years settings, this may also affect their ability to fully participate in physical activities with children or engage confidently in their role.
Moreover, period poverty has specific implications for female staff, who may find themselves unable to attend work or function comfortably during menstruation due to a lack of adequate sanitary products. According to research by ActionAid UK, 54% of women and girls have missed school or work because they couldn’t afford period products. This can result in recurring absenteeism, impacting both the individual’s livelihood and the smooth running of your nursery.
What Can Nursery Managers and Owners Do?
There are several ways you can support your staff and tackle period and hygiene poverty within your team.
Make essential hygiene and period products freely available to staff in private areas like restrooms or staff rooms. By doing so, you’re removing the stigma and making it easier for staff to access these items without embarrassment. A small basket stocked with sanitary pads, tampons, deodorant, and other basic hygiene products can go a long way in helping staff feel comfortable and supported.
Creating a culture of openness and support is vital. Regularly check in with your staff and encourage an environment where they feel comfortable discussing personal challenges, including financial difficulties that may affect their access to hygiene products. Consider holding well-being workshops or including mental and physical well-being topics in team meetings to normalise these conversations.
Many people experiencing hygiene poverty are also facing broader financial challenges. Offering resources or workshops on financial well-being, budgeting, and support services can help staff navigate these difficulties. Additionally, ensure your staff are aware of any available benefits, grants, or government support they may be entitled to.
If a member of staff is struggling with period pain or discomfort but feels unable to afford sanitary products, they may be reluctant to ask for time off. Offering flexible working arrangements, where possible, can allow staff to manage their well-being more effectively. This could include allowing remote working on days when they are experiencing severe discomfort or providing extra sick leave for issues related to period health.
Period and hygiene poverty are real and growing challenges in the UK, and nursery managers and owners have an important role to play in supporting staff through these difficulties. By providing access to essential products, building an open and supportive culture, and offering financial well-being resources, you can make a meaningful difference to the lives of your employees. Addressing these issues not only enhances staff morale and productivity but also creates a more inclusive and compassionate workplace where everyone can thrive.