One of the things about being a parent of nearly adults is the realisation that you really should go along for the ride whenever possible because their life is infinitely more interesting than your own. My newfound energy (thank god) means I’m much more likely to say yes nowadays which makes for a much more entertaining life.

When T suggested we went on a bus trip down to London to celebrate periods and the work of menstruation activists; and to deliver young people’s stories to Downing Street – I agreed. It’s not lost on me that I was standing in the small crowd listening to young people’s stories when I no longer suffer with periods, because I’m at the end of my journey not at the beginning. Let’s hope way before these young people reach 48 this issue is sorted. I remember signing a petition 30 years ago that there shouldn’t be tax on period products (I mean luxury item?!). There now isn’t, but it was only passed recently and the retailers kept the prices the same and pocketed the difference. Sigh. 30 years.

Anyway we had a sign that involved red glitter glue and seemed quite popular with passersby. T spoke about the work she’s involved with delivering period workshops. We listened to young people’s stories and the work that’s been done already – but I realised how little things have improved. Schools, including our own, are not doing enough to support young people. 1 in 6 young people have missed school because of periods. 1 in 4 cannot afford period products. They often cannot leave class to use the toilet, and period products are not accessible in many schools. This really isn’t rocket science.

After the speeches our odd small merry band danced and walked to Downing Street to the sounds of Tina Turner and other icons through the portable speaker. “Bad Blood” was particularly appropriate.

Despite being on a bus for 9 hours (when we were in London for all of 3) I’m so glad I went. Sharing in my daughter’s lives is entertaining, invigorating and frankly a privilege. They keep my life interesting and give me hope for the future. Plus they give us a use for glitter glue…