Purple Box FAQ

Q: What is the Purple Box?
A: It is a box which is placed in a library or other easily accessible place, where women can take away period products for free

Q: Why is this needed?
A: Sadly, despite living in one of the wealthiest countries in the world, the UK is seeing rising inequality, and an austerity dogma which has hit women especially hard. Recent figures from a WFI research project found that 1 in 5 women in Scotland has had to prioritise other purchases over sanitary products. We want to make sure that all women and girls are able to get hold of clean, safe sanitary products when they need them.

Q: Who is funding it?
A: The Purple Box has been started by volunteers who are members of Women for Independence Midlothian. We rely on the generosity of the Midlothian community to keep the boxes stocked.

Q: I can spare it – how can I help?
A: Just buy a pack or two of tampons or towels if you can afford it, and drop them into your nearest Purple Box Place (see locations) – we hope that people will become regular givers, e.g. if you are buying your own, maybe buy an extra pack once a month.

Q: I need period products. How can I use the Purple Box?
A: Go to the library and look for the purple box. We only ask that you are considerate and take just what you need so that as many women as possible can benefit.

Q: I have just started my periods. Can I use the Purple Box?
A: Yes! The Purple Box is for anyone who needs it.

Q: Why are you putting them in libraries?
A: Libraries are central points in most towns, and are open on weekdays and Saturdays, in the mornings and on many evenings. Many of the newer ones (Loanhead, Newbattle and Lasswade) are also open late at night and on Sundays. They are easy to get into and are a key part of the community.

Q: I am a man, can I also contribute?
A: Absolutely! Just buy a box of tampons or a pack of towels next time you are in the supermarket and drop it off in the box.

Q: Can I give you feedback or ask a question?
A: Yes, just fill out our online survey:  https://tinyurl.com/wfim-free-p or send us an email via our contact form

Q: Why is Women for Independence doing this? It is nothing to with Scotland or Independence.
A: Women for Independence believes in a healthy society, where everyone has a reasonable standard of living and well- being. We believe that the UK is not working for all people, and is showing no sign of changing its priorities. WFI wants to see an independent Scotland not for its own sake, but so we can allow our communities, our children, our womenfolk and our menfolk flourish. We want to see a country which puts people and planet first. Within this context, we believe that all women should have access to sanitary protection which enables them to function fully, safeguards their health, and which is not dependent on their ability to pay for sanitary products. Until we have a political system which makes that possible, we want to do our bit to level the playing field, with the support of Midlothian’s community.