Year in Review 2021

OUR HOSPITALS WSLHD YEAR IN REVIEW 3

Above from left Auburn Hospital Quality and Accreditation Manager Sally Henderson in front of the Share the Dignity vending machine holding period pack. Social Worker Jemima Gaunt holding period pack. Auburn Hospital

Auburn Hospital first in NSW to install ‘Share the Dignity’ vending machine for free pads and tampons. Auburn Hospital was the first public hospital in NSW to install a Share the Dignity vending machine , which dispenses a period pack with six tampons and two pads at the press of a button. Free feminine hygiene products are now available for members of the public and staff 24 hours a day, 365 days a year in the emergency department at Auburn Hospital. Founded in 2015, Share the Dignity is an Australian charity dedicated

to ensuring women have access to basic sanitary items during their menstrual cycle – particularly women experiencing period poverty. The vending machine was arranged by Auburn Hospital Quality and Accreditation Manager Sally Henderson, who has been volunteering for Share the Dignity for 18 months. The packs are designed to provide 24 hours of access to sanitary products, with no questions asked and no limit per person. It was placed in the emergency department to ensure there is 24-hour public access. This is another way that all women’s dignity in the Auburn community,

regardless of background, language, or any social disadvantage, can be supported. Auburn Hospital Social Worker Jemima Gaunt said by providing the community with access to free period products, they aim to maintain the dignity in every woman’s life. The service would be appreciated by many women who receive support through the hospital. The vending machine is located within the baby change room in the emergency department and is accessed simply by pressing the green button. There is a 10-minute delay between dispensing packs to protect against misuse. Auburn Hospital was also a collection point for the March Dignity Drive , where members of the public were encouraged to donate pads, tampons, period underwear, incontinence pads, menstrual cups and other sanitary items.

Founded in 2015, Share the Dignity is an Australian charity dedicated to ensuring women have access to basic sanitary items during their menstrual cycle – particularly women experiencing period poverty.

For a full list of services, visit www.wslhd.health.nsw.gov.au/ Auburn-Hospital/Our-Services

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