Menstural Health and Period Poverty - Exmouth

Devon Communities Together is pleased to be a partner in a 12-month feasibility research project of reusable period products to support menstrual health, which was launched in September 2026. It is led by the University of Exeter, Exmouth Town Council and ourselves, with funding from the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR).

Researchers will examine whether reusable menstrual products could help reduce costs and environmental waste while supporting menstrual health.

The project will work with young women aged between 16 and 29 years, who live or work in Exmouth. Devon Communities Together will help to recruit and consult with the participants to help to identify practical ways of improving menstrual health support.

Dr Louise Venables, Exmouth town councillor and lead researcher, said: “This research gives us an exciting opportunity to listen directly to young people and understand what support would make the biggest difference.

“We want to ensure any future initiatives are led by evidence and shaped by the community, helping to reduce period poverty while improving health, wellbeing and environmental outcomes.”

Claire Hickson is the Devon Communities Together lead, so please contact claire.hickson@devoncommunities.org.uk for any further information.