Staff support Clothing has the power to both exacerbate
and relieve this. There are a variety of features employers and employees can look out for that will help enable team members to feel more comfortable. During an interactive session at the
event, carers had the opportunity to feel different fabrics and learn about the features that can address wearer requirements. Naiomi explained that there is a myth that synthetic fibres cannot be used for pre and post-menopausal symptoms like hot flushes. With a presumption that the use of synthetic fibres would be uncomfortable, hot and sweaty against the skin. Naiomi dispelled this myth, explaining fibre science and technology have a come along way. A key example is leading sportswear brands who are using these technologies to develop comfortable gym wear.
With this in mind, when selecting uniforms one consideration is selecting garments that incorporate a percentage of natural or regenerated fibre e.g. cotton, Lyocell and / or synthetic fibres that have been specially engineered to have a wicking effect to manage the absorption and evaporation of moisture. Ultimately, materials that allow for quick evaporation will prevent garments from becoming damp and heavy, and will therefore be more comfortable to wear.
The fit of a garment is critical, too. It is
best to avoid tight-fitting, rigid uniforms. Instead, care providers should be looking to choose designs that facilitate air circulation. For example, fabrics that move and stretch with the body, providing a billow effect – moving air through parts of the garment, passing along the skin and out of the garment. Air flow can also be increased by selecting tops that feature an open neckline, vent holes or mesh panels under the arms. Stretch also plays a role in how a garment fits. While 360 degree or four way stretch is not required, as that can become a second skin and therefore restricting air flow, the goal is to balance enough stretch to facilitate movement, flexibility and the overall comfort. Another way to make employees, more comfortable is to decrease the weight of the uniform. Workwear experts can advise on additional design elements that can help achieve this. For example, reducing unnecessary pockets and seams that would not be practical. Finally, durability and wash care are important factors to consider. Attendees
January 2025
www.thecarehomeenvironment.com
discussed how symptoms of the menopause can make users want to wash their clothing more regularly. Therefore, materials selected to produce uniforms need to withstand washes as needed without significantly altering the lifespan or function of the garment. Each feature discussed, will impact comfort for the wearer, but it is important to recognise that a one-size-fits-all all approach will not work for uniform for menopause. There are a wide range of symptoms, and each individual will have a different experience of it. Therefore, team members should be consulted, to develop a number of options that best meet their individual needs. This can be facilitated through wearer trials, so employees have the chance to have their say. Wearer trials do not just empower those experiencing the menopause, they can ensure everyone, no matter what their needs are, are accommodated for so they can perform to the best of their abilities. This is critical in a sector such as care which is both physically and mentally demanding.
Just the beginning of the journey Ultimately, the event highlighted that, while there are lots of opportunities to support
those experiencing the menopause, be that training or uniform, many organisations are early in their journey of implementing support. Therefore, communication and involving team members in the process to develop and source these resources is key to ensuring it is effective and meets employees’ needs.
The Menopause Matters 2024 event marks the start of an ongoing campaign for change from Alsico and Care England, who will be sharing insights from the day and delivering dedicated support and resources to the care sector.
References 1.
https://menopausesupport.co.uk/?page_ id=17128
2.
https://www.bupa.co.uk/newsroom/ ourviews/symptoms-menopause-hot-flushes
n
Sara Catanzaro
SCAN HERE To find out more
https://www.alsico.com/uk/ environments/healthcare/ menopause-matters
With over 15 years of experience in the workwear industry, Sara Catanzaro leads the design team at Alsico UK. She uses her passion for sustainability and deep understanding of the diverse needs of the UK workforce to lead the creation of innovative garments that not only protect but also empower.
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Feng Yu -
stock.adobe.com
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