Role of Tayside Period Dignity Officer scrapped after major backlash
Jason Grant from Dundee was appointed the role in August
The role of Period Dignity Regional Lead Officer in Scotland has been axed after "threats and abuse" towards individuals.
It comes after a major backlash following the decision to appoint a man to the role, which involved promoting access to free sanitary products in schools and colleges across Tayside.
Jason Grant, from Dundee, was also set to discuss issues around the menopause as part of the position.
Critics of last month's announcement argued that the role should have been given to a woman.
Today, Dundee and Angus College confirmed the position will not continue and asked that a "spirit of kindness" is extended to those involved in the Period Dignity Working Group.
The group includes representatives of Dundee and Angus College, Perth College, Angus Council and Dundee City Council.
A spokesperson for the Period Dignity Working Group said:
"It is regrettable that given the threats and abuse levelled at individuals in recent weeks, the Period Dignity Regional Lead Officer role will not continue.
"The working group is now looking closely at alternative ways to deliver these vital services in line with the legal requirements of the Period Products (Free Provision) (Scotland) Act 2021.
"Meanwhile, support will continue to be provided to the colleagues and students who have been subjected to personal attack. Their safety and wellbeing is of paramount importance.
"The group's joint work to provide free period products is rooted in kindness. We therefore ask that the same spirit of kindness is extended to those involved, and that their privacy is respected."
Mr Grant's appointment was the first role of its kind in the country, but sparked an outcry across social media.
Former tennis star Martina Navratilova said choosing Mr Grant for the role was "ridiculous", while Susan Dalgety, a newspaper columnist and women's rights campaigner, tweeted:
"I have no idea why anyone thought it was a good idea to appoint a bloke."