Liv Webb (Living Lab intern) interviews Georgina Wetherall, one of the recipients of the Living Lab’s new Friendly Living Fund micro-grant, to find out how she is using the funding to improve access to sustainable period products on campus.

Georgina’s sustainable period products are now available in the Students Union.

Access to period products is something many people take for granted, but for some students it can be an added stress, both financially and practically. Georgina Wetherall has launched a project to make free period products available across York St John University campus.

Backed by the Living Labs Friendly Living Fund micro-grant scheme, which supports student-led ideas that respond to the cost of living crisis and climate challenges, the project focuses on both accessibility and sustainability.

Here is Georgina Wetherall talking about how the project began, the impacts, and what it means for the York St John community.

Liv: Why did you apply for the Friendly Living Fund?

Georgina: I applied for the Friendly Living Fund because I recognised an opportunity to address a pressing issue affecting students through a practical and sustainable initiative. Given the recent rise in period poverty in the UK, I felt compelled to take action. The fund provided a platform to translate concern into impact, enabling me to support my peers in a meaningful way.

Liv: Why did you choose this project?

Georgina: My project focuses on distributing free reusable period products to students on campus. I chose this initiative because period poverty is not only a public health concern but also an occupational injustice. As an occupational therapy student, I am acutely aware of how limited access to period products can restrict individuals’ ability to engage in essential daily activities such as attending university, participating in social life, or maintaining personal wellbeing. Reusable products offer a sustainable solution that promotes autonomy, dignity, and long-term affordability. This project aligns with my developing professional values and reflects a commitment to equity and inclusion.

Liv: Why do you think the Friendly Living Fund is important for the York St John campus?

Georgina: The Friendly Living Fund plays a vital role in fostering a compassionate and inclusive environment at York St John. It enables students to respond creatively and proactively to challenges that directly affect our wellbeing and daily experiences. By supporting student-led initiatives, the fund encourages a sense of ownership and agency, allowing us to shape our campus culture in meaningful ways. It also reflects the university’s commitment to social justice, equity, and community resilience.

Liv:- Would you recommend that other students apply for the fund?

Georgina: Absolutely. The Friendly Living Fund is an excellent opportunity for students to transform their ideas into impactful projects, no matter the size.

Georgina’s work through The Period Project shows how student-led initiatives can create real, practical change. By improving access to sustainable period products and raising awareness of menstrual equity, the project is helping to make York St John a more supportive, inclusive community for all students, building a fairer, sustainable university.