New research reveals key opportunities to improve menopause support in the UK care sector

New research from alsico has uncovered the key areas that those going through the menopause in the UK care workforce are finding the most challenging today, and highlighted simple, effective ways for care providers to offer more support.

The report, from workwear specialist alsico, has identified several meaningful ways that employers in the care sector can improve the experience of team members navigating menopause at work. The report focuses on practical, low-cost changes that could boost retention, wellbeing, and comfort across the industry.

Conducted in 2025, the research surveyed 410 UK care home workers — 110 of whom reported experiencing perimenopause or menopause symptoms on the job. The findings point to three key areas where care providers can act to better support their teams: workplace adjustments, policy accessibility, and uniform design.

Sara Catanzaro, Design Manager at Alsico, commented:

“This research is a really positive step in highlighting where small changes can have a big impact. All the organisations we spoke to expressed that menopause is a big focus, but the individual nature of experience can make it difficult to know where to start or how best to support the whole team. Our report is designed to showcase what has worked for others and to give those responsible data-backed recommendations to help get more support in place.”

With over a quarter of affected workers saying that menopause symptoms have made them consider leaving their role, the report suggests that thoughtful adjustments and improved communication could play a powerful role in retaining experienced staff and improving morale sector-wide.

The report identified several areas where a difference can be made very quickly:

• Almost two-thirds (61%) of affected workers disagreed that their employers offered useful workplace adjustments to help with symptom management.
• 44% don’t know how to access their company’s menopause policy with more than half not knowing what is included in the policy.
• Over half disagreed that their uniforms had the properties needed to complete their responsibilities, highlighting issues with cooling down, getting sweaty and uncomfortable, and the lack of stretch.

Sara added:

“The data shows that many aren’t yet aware of available support, or feel current provisions could be improved, but they highlight a strong opportunity for care providers to lead the way in creating more inclusive, supportive workplaces. From my experience with uniform design, I can say it is an area that’s sometimes overlooked, but it can make a real difference. Fabrics that are soft, breathable and moisture-wicking can help manage the physical impact of menopause, and these solutions are available. Improvement in menopause support across the areas identified in our research is about listening to your team and responding with options that work. I’m hopeful that the recommendations in the report will inspire long-term positive change for the sector.”

Read the full report here: https://www.alsico.com/uk/menopause-in-the-care-sector-report

Alsico’s research findings on menopause form part of a wider upcoming industry report, which also explores other areas of opportunity in the care sector, including motivation, training needs, and respect at work.

Sign up to receive the full report when it’s released here: https://www.alsico.com/uk/unmet-needs-in-the-care-sector-sign-up-form

Care England are proud to be working with our partners from alsico, a Care England member. Alsico are a proud family business that designs, manufactures and distributes work clothes in a sustainable and well-considered manner.

Care England have been recognising Menopause Awareness Month this October. To find out more, please visit: www.careengland.org.uk/menopause-awareness-day-understanding-supporting-and-empowering-the-care-workforce/.