British Judo Champions become Period Supportive

Periods should never be a barrier to participation, yet for many women and girls, the lack of period support in sports can cause unnecessary stress and exclusion.

That’s why British Judo has taken a bold step towards inclusivity by partnering with FabLittleBag to make this year’s British Championships the first-ever Period-Supportive edition of their annual flagship competition.

This partnership not only aims to normalise conversations around periods but also ensures that fighters, coaches, and spectators have the support they need to fully engage with the sport they love.

Leading the Way in Period Support

British Judo’s commitment to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for everyone in the sport is clear. Andrew Bowly, Head of Inclusion, Safeguarding, and Wellbeing at British Judo, shares the vision:

“We are delighted to be partnering with FabLittleBags to make this year’s British Championships, the first Period-Friendly edition of our annual flagship competition.

We would like to remove the stigma around periods in the sport, with the hope that clubs, coaches and fighters make carrying these bags as normal as a first aid bag, with the bags regularly topped up and available at all training sessions and matchdays.

We are confident that this will reduce the pressure on fighters who feel they cannot attend train or compete as they have either no or limited access to Period products with it also helping female coaches and spectators who get ‘caught short.’

Having a FabLittleBag also means that disposal becomes an easy and confident experience which will give women and girls a more positive experience within grassroots judo.”

This forward-thinking initiative sets a powerful example for other organisations to follow. As Martha our CEO states: 

“We are thrilled to welcome British Judo to the Period Supportive Movement, joining the collective effort to remove periods as a barrier to participation for women and girls in sport. By embracing this initiative, British Judo is taking a powerful step toward fostering inclusivity and ensuring that no athlete feels hindered or excluded due to menstruation. Together, we are empowering young women and girls to thrive in the sport they love, confident and supported every step of the way.” 

By prioritising period support, British Judo is breaking down barriers and fostering inclusivity, showing that no one should have to sit out because of their period.

Why Period Supportive Environments Matter

For too long, the stigma surrounding periods has prevented women and girls from participating in sports and other activities. A lack of access to period products and hygienic disposal facilities creates unnecessary stress, embarrassment, and even exclusion.

Becoming a period supportive organisation means:

• Normalising Conversations: Talking openly about periods helps to break down stigma and empowers individuals to ask for the support they need.
• Providing Free Products and Responsible Disposal Options: Making period products and hygienic responsible disposal solutions like FabLittleBag readily available ensures that everyone can participate with confidence.
• Supporting Mental and Physical Wellbeing: Knowing that period needs are met reduces anxiety and allows fighters to focus on their performance and enjoyment.

The Role of FabLittleBag in Creating Change

FabLittleBag is proud to partner with British Judo to make their competitions and clubs period supportive. With its discreet, hygienic, and eco-friendly design, FabLittleBag offers an easy way to dispose of period products responsibly.

• Convenience: FabLittleBag is compact and portable, making it easy to carry in any sports bag or pocket.
• Confidence: Its secure seal locks in waste and prevents leaks, ensuring a stress-free disposal experience.
• Sustainability: Made from sustainable materials, FabLittleBag promotes eco-friendly period care by preventing flushing and reducing environmental harm.

By incorporating FabLittleBag into their events, British Judo is taking a proactive approach to making sports more inclusive and sustainable.

A Call to Action: Make Your Organisation Period Supportive

British Judo’s partnership with FabLittleBag highlights the importance of creating period-positive environments in all areas of life. Whether in sports, workplaces, or schools, becoming period supportive is a vital step towards inclusivity and empowerment.

Here’s how your organisation can get involved:

1. Offer Responsible Disposal Options: Install FabLittleBag dispensers and keep them stocked so that binning is hygienic and  stress free
2. Educate and Advocate: Promote open conversations about periods that normalise the conversations around periods and sports performance.
3. Lead by Example: Follow the lead of organisations like British Judo by making period support a priority.

Final Thoughts 

The National Championships will be British Judo's first Period Supportive Event and all other events will follow suit.

This partnership isn’t just about providing period products; it’s about sending a message: periods are normal, and no one should ever feel excluded or unsupported because of them in sport or anywhere else. Let’s celebrate British Judo for taking the lead and encourage other organisations to follow suit in becoming period supportive.

Together, we can create a world where periods are never a barrier to participation.