A BASINGSTOKE teenager has set up a project to help other young people in the town who are facing ‘period poverty’ during lockdown.

Madison North, who is in Year 10 at Everest Academy, noticed that many of her peers were making use of the school’s supply of sanitary products, and grew concerned for them when schools closed.

She told the Gazette: “I was shocked to think that some girls do not have access to sanitary protection. I can not imagine what it would be like to have a period with no sanitary wear. It’s not like we can choose not to have periods! I know some girls at my school use the supplies they have, but it never crossed my mind it could be because that’s all they have.”

After a conversation with her mum, the 15-year-old decided to do something about it by making up period packs to be distributed to teenagers in Basingstoke.

She set up a page on Facebook called Mad’s Pads and posted a link to an Amazon wish list, inviting friends and family to donate packs of pads to make the boxes.

She also set up a crowdfunding page so they could buy supplies from the local supermarkets at a cheaper price, meaning more boxes could be made.

“Now lots are homeschooling they may not have anything. Every girl deserves a comfortable and stress-free period which is why I’ve made it my mission to ensure any teen in need can access the sanitary wear they need,” said Madison.

“The response has been amazing I never expected so many people to get on board and the support has been overwhelming. We have already received so many donations and I can’t thank everybody enough.

“I hope to supply period packs to the teens of Basingstoke that need them until the schools fully reopen so they have the protection they need.”

Within 24 hours of being set up, Mad’s Pads had received donations of more 90 packs of pads and had smashed its target of £150.

Madison’s mum, Rebecca, added: “We have been overwhelmed with support and are very grateful to all that have donated. We are currently making packs that will be ready to be distributed on Friday to teens in need in Basingstoke. I’m so proud of Madison.”

For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/Mads-Pads-105843554839914/