Your favourite stories from 2018
Your favourite stories from 2018
2018 was an incredible year. With your support, we were able to do even more to give every child, every chance, to promote children's rights, and to continue to campaign for equality for girls everywhere.
To celebrate an amazing 12 months, we share your most-read stories from the last year.
'That little lift of joy'
In April, singer and actor Beverley Knight told us about her experience of being a sponsor with Plan International UK, and how much the experience has meant to her. Over the last 13 years, she’s sponsored two boys from Haiti – and learnt all about the impact it’s had on their lives and the wider community.
Enlightening, edifying and humbling. That’s my child sponsorship experience in three words.
Taking on taboos around the world
In March, we celebrated International Women's Day with the stories of brave girls and women around the world who are creating change in their communities: Melody, a sexual health advocate in Tanzania (pictured), Weyinitu, an ambassador for the Uncut Girls’ Club in Ethiopia, and Madame Agatha, a period educator in Uganda.
Because I am poor, it does not mean that I must give up my right to an education and the right to decide my own future.
– Melody, Tanzania
Our Menstrual Manifesto
In March, we launched our first-of-its kind report, Break the Barriers, looking at girls’ experiences of periods in the UK.
It shows that periods are still a source of stigma and shame – and we believe that has to change. That’s why we’re demanding action through our Menstrual Manifesto, to end the challenges girls face and to break down the taboos that continue to make them feel ashamed of their bodies when they have their period.
Street harassment: 'It's not OK'
In October, we marked International Day of the Girl with the launch of a new film and a new report, looking at street harassment in the UK. It reveals that UK girls are facing shockingly high levels of harassment, with 66% of girls aged 14 to 21 having experienced unwanted sexual attention or harassment in a public place.
In response, we asked you to share the message that 'It's not okay' and highlighted nine ways we can all take a stand against street harassment.
What makes a period a healthy period?
Do you know how often girls should expect their period, which sanitary products are available to help you manage your period every month, or whether periods can impact your mental health?
Take our quiz to discover how much you really know about periods and health – and why this knowledge matters in more ways than you might think (or have ever been taught)…
Latest stories for you
“I was kept to work as the servant”
Angel was only five years old when she was enslaved in Nepal. Today she remains determined to...
Ukraine one year on: a helping hand in times of uncertainty
The conflict in Ukraine continues, but together we are making sure that children do not face...
As Prime Minister, I could inspire other girls
Maryam imagines what it would be like to take over the influential position of Prime Minister.
Education in emergencies isn’t just a right – it’s a necessity
Three young leaders are prioritising education for children forced to flee their homes.
Show more