STUDENTS across the Borders can now receive free sanitary products, thanks to a new £5.2 million scheme to fight period poverty.

In a world-wide first, funding by the Scottish Government means the products are available to all schools, colleges and universities.

The scheme, which coincides with the start of the academic year, follows a pilot which took place in Aberdeen last year.

The move has been welcomed by Lauderdale and Tweeddale MSP Christine Grahame (SNP).

Ms Grahame said: “The SNP Government’s £5.2 million investment in free sanitary products will allow students to remain focused on what matters – their studies. Basic sanitary provision is a right, not a privilege.

“The notion that anyone should struggle to buy essential hygiene products is simply not acceptable and we should be proud that Scotland is leading the way in the fight against period poverty.

“I would encourage everyone to get firmly behind initiatives like this, including the UK government.”