Spotlight You: Co-founder of Wolverhampton-based non-profit says it’s time to eradicate period poverty and end stigma around menstruation

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By Nika Shakhnazarova

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This is a sponsored article with the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games to shine a light on inspiring young people in the West Midlands.

As the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games draws nearer, we’re continuing to celebrate the inspirational people of the West Midlands and remind you that there’s never been a better time to get involved with one of the biggest events the region has ever hosted. 

Located in the northwest of the West Midlands, Wolverhampton has long been a city defined by its diligent and compassionate people, who work tirelessly to make a difference in their community. It is these people that Birmingham 2022 is continuing to shine a spotlight on… 

One proud Wolverhampton native striving for change is 23-year-old Lucy Palin, who is the co-founder of the not-for-profit organisation, Project GIVE.

Lucy and her team of volunteers are not only on a mission to eradicate period poverty, but to also put an end to the stigma surrounding menstruation once and for all. 

“Considering half of the population of the UK go through a period every single month, we just don’t talk about it - no one wants to talk about periods,” Lucy says.

In an effort to combat this, Lucy is striving to guarantee that those in need have access to free sanitary products. And thanks to the team’s tireless efforts and the community’s donations, Lucy proudly states: “Project GIVE ensured that every single high school and primary school in Wolverhampton had free and unlimited access to sanitary products.”

From reusable sanitary pads to menstrual cups to period underwear, Project GIVE aims to be there for anybody who needs them - whether it’s people who have just started their periods or those who are premenopausal.

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Credit: Birmingham 2022

Lucy’s message is simple: “If you menstruate then we’re here for you.”

“Eradicating period poverty would be monumental,” Lucy says, adding: “To eradicate that massive barrier for so many people… it would be incredible.”

And Lucy is aware that without her local community’s support, Project GIVE wouldn’t be in the position it is today.

“The hidden gem of Wolverhampton would undoubtedly be the people. I have loved and lived with people from Wolverhampton for my entire life. I am incredibly grateful to come from there,” she says. 

Lucy’s story is proof that amazing things can happen when we come together as a community. And if the Project GIVE team has inspired you to be part of something special in your city, then you should apply to be a volunteer at Birmingham 2022 and join the Commonwealth Collective. 

The Commonwealth Collective will consist of over 13,000 spirited, dedicated, and dynamic volunteers that will band together to help deliver the biggest sporting and cultural event the West Midlands has ever seen.

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Credit: Birmingham 2022

Being a part of the Commonwealth Games is your chance to meet like-minded people, learn a host of new skills, and, most importantly, make a real impact on your city.

No formal experience is required, and with a wide range of roles to be filled, there is something for everyone.

Applications to volunteer at Birmingham 2022 are now open. The process is simple and takes around 20 minutes. Just head to Birmingham 2022 to be directed to an application form. Enter your personal details, choose which areas you’d like to volunteer in, and add any skills and qualifications you have, although you don’t need any specific experience to apply.  

Make memories that will last a lifetime and embrace this not-to-be-missed opportunity. Volunteer at Birmingham 2022 and make your city proud.

And if you would like to learn more about Lucy and her team’s incredible mission, CLICK HERE.

Make the West Midlands proud!

Register to volunteer at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games HERE.

Featured image credit: Birmingham 2022