Menopause support for women in police custody

Women in police custody experiencing menopause symptoms will be offered support

Menopause support has been announced for women in police custody experiencing symptoms.

Cambridgeshire Police has worked with NHS liaison and diversion (L&D) services and its custody healthcare provider, Mitie, to develop menopause hygiene kits, produce an information leaflet and train custody staff.

Following recommendations by the National Police Chiefs' Council, all women taken into custody aged 40 and over will be asked if they would like to speak to someone regarding perimenopause, menopause or post-menopause symptoms.

If they do, they will be seen by the local L&D service and the custody healthcare professional.

The force's custody prevention co-ordinator Ciara Mole said: “This recognises the impact the menopause can have for women in police custody.

“Many women experience symptoms such as brain fog, hot and cold sweats, and low mood, linked to the natural drop in oestrogen that occurs during perimenopause.

"It’s important factors like this which must be considered [during police] interview, along with adaptations to support them, including appropriate adult provision and legal advice.”