FREE sanitary products are being offered in Somerset's libraries to women who can't afford them.

The Period Poverty initiative runs as a trial during National Libraries Week, starting on Monday (October 8).

People are being asked to donate unopened sanitary products at their nearest library.

The products will then be redistributed to the five libraries running the pilot service - Bridgwater, Chard, Glastonbury, Taunton and Yeovil.

They will be given out on a no-questions-asked basis from Monday, November 12.

David Hall, Somerset County Council cabinet member for economic development, planning and community infrastructure, said: "The issue of period poverty affects one in seven girls in the UK, who struggle to be able to afford sanitary products.

"It’s wonderful to see our libraries serving their local community by helping to provide a much-needed service to vulnerable women in Somerset and I would like to encourage people to support this project by donating supplies."