Free period products available at Armagh City Library

Residents in Armagh can continue to access free period products at Armagh City Library during normal opening hours as part of the Northern Ireland-wide Free Period Products Scheme. The initiative, which is available through libraries and other community collection points across the region, aims to ensure that nobody is prevented from accessing essential menstrual products because of cost.

The scheme was introduced to help tackle period poverty and provide greater dignity, equality and support for those who menstruate. Users can collect products discreetly and free of charge from participating locations, helping to remove financial barriers at a time when many households continue to face rising living costs.

Public support for the initiative remains strong. Findings from the Executive Office's Attitudes to the Free Period Products Scheme in Northern Ireland 2025 survey showed widespread backing for the provision of free period products, with many respondents agreeing that products should be available free of charge to those who need them. The research also highlighted support for providing products through easily accessible community venues such as libraries, helping to normalise access and reduce stigma surrounding menstruation.

Welcoming the continued availability of the service in Armagh, Sarah Duffy said the scheme is making a meaningful difference within the local community.

"I very much welcome the continued availability of free period products at Armagh Library. This initiative was introduced a number of years ago, and it is encouraging to see it continuing to make a positive difference within our community, now more than ever.

"Period products are a basic necessity, not a luxury, yet for many women and girls they represent an additional financial burden, particularly at a time when household budgets remain under significant pressure.

"Providing free and accessible period products in public spaces such as our libraries helps to tackle period poverty, removes unnecessary barriers and ensures that nobody is left feeling embarrassed or disadvantaged because they cannot afford essential products."

Councillor Duffy said initiatives such as the one available at Armagh City Library demonstrate the important role public services can play in supporting people beyond their traditional functions.

She added: "I also want to pay tribute to the wonderful staff at Armagh City Library, who are always so warm, welcoming and helpful. They do a fantastic job in creating an inclusive and supportive environment for everyone who comes through the doors. We are incredibly fortunate to have such a dedicated team at the heart of our city.

"Our libraries are so much more than places to borrow books. They are vital community spaces, and initiatives like this demonstrate the important role they play in supporting people in their everyday lives.

"Access to period products should be a matter of dignity and equality, and I would encourage anyone who needs this support to make use of the facilities available."

The continued availability of free period products at Armagh City Library reflects the growing recognition that access to essential hygiene products should not be determined by income. As community hubs serving people of all ages and backgrounds, libraries have become an important part of efforts to ensure support is available in a welcoming, accessible and non-judgemental environment.

For many users, initiatives such as the Free Period Products Scheme provide practical assistance while helping to break down the stigma that can still surround periods. Through services delivered in trusted public spaces, the scheme continues to support residents across Northern Ireland and ensure that those who need period products can access them with dignity and ease.