You may have heard the phrase, “Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus”, taken from the book by the same name, but what you may not all realise is that it’s pretty accurate. Men and women are both human creatures; however, they remain unique and diverse in so many ways. Certainly, basic needs are the same; both sexes need food, water, warmth, and affection, to thrive, but health needs and advice can be very different, particularly when considering women’s health in various aspects of life, including the workplace.
Women as Workers
Understanding women’s health in the workplace is crucial for fostering a supportive environment.
It’s crucial to prioritise women’s health and ensure that women feel supported in their work environments.
As we explore the evolution of women’s roles, we must also address the importance of women’s health during these transitions.
Since women joined the workforce, their numbers have steadily increased through the years due to socio-economic changes since the introduction of the Married Women’s Property Act in 1870 and two World Wars, which saw women undertaking previously male dominated roles in manufacturing and agriculture.
For over 40 years, the UK has witnessed a continual rise in the number of women in the workforce. With this increase, the significance of addressing women’s health needs becomes even more paramount for employers.
Women’s Health Needs
Let’s look at the health needs of women in the workplace. More women are having family later in life, returning to work following maternity leave, and due to age increases in Government pension schemes, are working to a greater age. These social changes mean that women are having to work whilst coping with changes regarding their health and body, often associated with age, disease, or pregnancy.
Employers must recognise the specific health needs of their women workers, facilitating programmes that cater to women’s health and wellbeing. ROC Health provides an exceptional service tailored to support the diverse needs of women in the workplace.
Well Woman Checks
Furthermore, a proactive approach towards women’s health can lead to increased productivity and job satisfaction.
Since 2010 ROC Health have been undertaking Well Woman Checks, delivering health packages specific to the needs of women delivered by specialist medical practitioners of the highest professional standard. By performing Well Women Checks ROC Health recognises the need to ensure that women are supported through every stage of their lives ensuring physical, psychological, and emotional health needs are supported. These packages are constantly evaluated and revised ensuring the most up-to-date screening tests and treatment methods are maintained and provided ensuring best practice and optimum outcome for every woman.
Menopause Services
When considering the health of an ageing female workforce, menopause often comes to mind. Understanding its impact on women’s health is crucial for creating supportive work conditions.
It’s easy to dismiss symptoms such as “flushes” as a “normal part of menopause” but the impact this has on women can be overwhelming for them. What we are not told is that the “flush” feels like you are burning from the inside out, and the redness and sweating which accompanies it, can be sudden and cause great embarrassment and discomfort. Mix theses regular hot flushes with a hefty dose of insomnia, fatigue and emotional fragility, and life for menopausal women can be nothing more than misery.
ROC Health Services offer a unique menopause service devoted to enhancing the wellbeing of women and supporting them through their menopause journey. The service is run by Specialist medical practitioners who work relentlessly to provide women with tailored programmes specific to their menopausal needs. Through Occupational Health assessment and consultation, ROC Health can help employers decide what assistance can be put in place to provide the optimum support for the women in their employ who have work difficulties due to menopausal symptoms.
At ROC, our team is well-equipped to address the unique challenges faced by women, providing tailored support for mental health issues.
Women’s Mental Health
Recent shifts in societal attitudes have made it more acceptable to discuss mental health issues, especially those impacting women’s health. Women are encouraged to voice their concerns and seek help when needed, leading to better overall wellbeing.
At ROC we have skilled, experienced clinicians who offer a holistic approach to mental health. ROC Occupational Health can advise on how best to help support women in the workplace who may be struggling with their attendance or job performance due to mental health problems.
By focusing on women’s health, employers can implement strategies that enhance workplace morale and performance.
Occupational Health provided by ROC Health can also help to by signposting employees to services specific to support their mental health recovery.
*If there is any concern regarding someone’s safety or is a risk, they may harm themselves or others due to mental health issues, do not hesitate to call 999. There are specialist crisis resolution teams in the community. These are teams of mental health care professionals who work with people in acute distress. *
ROC can accommodate Companies with specific needs regarding their female workers, providing bespoke services and specialist talks delivered by our expert clinicians within your own workplace.
References
https://ifs.org.uk/publications/rise-and-rise-womens-employment-uk
https://www.monster.co.uk/career-advice/article/history_women_workplace
https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/a-z-topics/women-and-mental-health