Uniform Alternatives - NHSScotland Menopause and Menstrual Health Policy

As you will be aware, NHSScotland’s Menopause and Menstrual Health Policy was launched in October 2023 which supports staff experiencing menstrual health and menopause related conditions at work. Since launching the policy, NSS have had an increase in queries regarding access to more lightweight and breathable uniforms for staff experiencing menstrual health and menopause related conditions.

As such, we would like to take this opportunity to highlight the different uniform options that employers can order to accommodate these requests.

The range of lightweight options within the Dimensions range include scrubs and tunics, no dresses are currently available. The current uniform material is 170gsm (65%/35% Polyester Cotton Xtraflex) and the lightweight options are 145gsm, details below: 

  • D397/8 (Unisex scrub top & bottom)145gsm Poly Cotton Mix
  • NF26 (Female fit scrub top) 145gsm Poly Cotton Mix
  • NF48 (Women’s classic style tunic) in 145gsm

The clothing fabric is available to be dyed, however it is important to note these options may not match some of the specific NHSScotland colourways, and will incur a price increase. This fabric is also not likely to last as long.  

In addition to uniform adaptations, employers can refer to the workplace adjustments guide here for additional ways to support staff.

Finally, we would like to prompt a gentle reminder that the NHSScotland National Menopause and Menstrual Health policy is now in place and has been since 31st October, so we urge you to promote this policy throughout Health Boards. We would appreciate if you could ensure the policy is mentioned and linked on your webpages, which can be found here: Interim national menopause and menstrual health policy for NHSScotland.  

We do recognise the great local practice happening within Health Boards to promote Menopause and Menstrual Health, and we would ask that you continue promoting this to staff.

Happy New Year from Unison!

As we bid farewell to another year, we take a moment to reflect on our shared journey. Together, we’ve faced challenges and celebrated triumphs, always united in our commitment to a better world for all.

This New Year, let’s renew our dedication to solidarity, equity, and progress. May 2024 be a year of positive change, unwavering support, and collective success. We thank each of you for your invaluable contributions and look forward to another year of working hand in hand towards our common goals.

Here’s to a prosperous, healthy, and fulfilling New Year. May our union grow stronger with each passing day!

#UnityInAction #StrongerTogether2024

Job Evaluation Group Consultation on Amended and New Profiles

For a number of years, the Ambulance Stakeholder Group has been working closely with the Job Evaluation Group (JEG) Profile Group to develop a suite of emergency services profiles which reflect current practice in the Ambulance Service. This group works in partnership and is comprised of management side and trade union representatives. This consultation comprises of three focus areas:

• final consultation on patient transport services (PTS) driver profiles (band 2-3)
• consultation on minor changes to profiles within the ambulance suite (bands 4-7)
• consultation on proposed new profiles (band 7).

These proposals, can be downloaded in full at the bottom of this page from the link. It is important for members to have their say if you feel the outcomes are not fair or correct. This is being done via a consultation. This consultation will run until 8 September 2023. Comments received will be considered by Job Evaluation Group, and the necessary governance will be completed by the NHS Staff Council prior to publication. 

Please send through your comments to inverness.office@unison.co.uk by the 8th of September 2023.