Reusable period products make for ‘fantastic gifts’, says not-for-profit boss

Construction companies are being called on to consider reusable period products as alternative Christmas gifts for staff and clients by a leading not-for-profit.

Multi-award-winning period product social enterprise Hey Girls, which works with construction companies nationwide, has made the call as families across the country continue to feel the pinch during this time of economic uncertainty.

Like many social enterprises, Hey Girls operates on a “buy one, donate one” model – meaning it donates a box of sustainable period products to organisations like foodbanks, refuges and homeless shelters for every one purchased.

Kate Smith, Co-founder and Director of Hey Girls, said its range of reusable period products are the perfect example of gifts from the heart.

She said: “Everybody loves to spread the festive cheer this time of year and it is lovely to receive so many cards and gifts from businesses you work with.

“But the sad reality is there are families up and down the country this year struggling to make ends meet.

“Unfortunately that also means there are thousands of people having to make difficult decisions around something as basic as period products.

“While gifting things like reusable period pants and cups might seem a bit out there, they make for fantastic gifts that benefit your pocket and the environment – as well as helping transform the lives of people living in period poverty.”

Ipswich-based charity Inspire is one of the more than 350 community partners across the country benefitting from Hey Girls’ donations.

The charity works to empower young people to achieve a better future, supporting children from a range of different backgrounds.

Danielle Wright, Centre Manager at Inspire, said: “Hey Girls' 'buy one, donate one' model has been a fantastic initiative for charities like ours.

“By purchasing reusable period products as gifts this festive season, you'd not only be contributing to a healthier planet, but you'd also be actively addressing period poverty by helping to supply our students with essential items that enable them to focus on what truly matters – their education and wellbeing.

“It really is the gift that keeps on giving."

Businesses already partnered with Hey Girls can also support families across the country by donating to its mission on the Hey Girls website. More information on how to purchase Hey Girls products or donate can be found at www.heygirls.co.uk.