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Introduction

 

The Somerset Period Health Toolkit a free online resource which contains lots of useful links to policy, guidance and evidence based quality assured lesson plans about the changing body, puberty and Period Health.

 

The toolkit has been coproduced with young people from the Somerset Youth Parliament, The School Nursing Service, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Balpreet Singh on behalf of Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, as well as the Women's Integrated Health Board as part of The Somerset NHS Integrated Care Board.

 

The toolkit supports the delivery of consistent, high-quality and evidence-based period health education across schools and community settings. The Department for Education's updated RSHE and Health Education Guidance (2025) states that pupils should be taught about puberty and menstruation before its onset, including the menstrual cycle, menstrual products and the impact periods can have on physical and emotional health. It also highlights the importance of creating supportive environments where young people can confidently manage menstruation and access information and resources.

 

This digital resource also aligns with the ambitions of the Women's Health Strategy for England, which recognises the importance of improving women's health literacy, reducing stigma around menstrual health and ensuring that girls and young women are equipped with the knowledge and support needed to understand their bodies and access appropriate care. Evidence shows that positive menstrual health education can improve confidence, wellbeing and school participation, while helping young people recognise when symptoms may require further support.

 

You don't have to use all the resources in the toolkit, they are designed as a pick and mix of tools to help promote and raise awareness of the importance of positive period health education for children and young people in Somerset.

 

Somerset Context

The Somerset Health and Wellbeing Survey 2026 is an opportunity for pupils and students to share their views and experiences in relation to their own health and wellbeing both in and out of school or college. To find out more about health and wellbeing issues for our local girls and young women click the link here

 

  Source: Somerset Schools Health and Wellbeing Survey

 

 

Click here to access: The Somerset Period Health Toolkit
Supporting positive conversations about puberty, periods and wellbeing

 

 


organiser@somersethealthinschools.co.uk
www.somerset.gov.uk