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Workplace viewpoint: Lifting the lid on supporting the menopause at work

No longer a taboo subject, having open conversations about the menopause in the workplace is a step forward to changing workplace culture and menopause support at work. High profile campaigners have helped to bring awareness and openness to the cause in recent times which can only be a good thing.

Slowly we are seeing a shift in how organisations are approaching handling of the menopause for employees as they would any other health issue.

Why is it important?
It's important for employers to be aware that the menopause and its symptoms can affect staff at various stages. Being aware of menopause symptoms and how an employee can be supported will help them to do their job confidently and effectively. It can also reduce absenteeism.

In a survey of 1,000 adults in the UK, the British Menopause Society found that 45% of women felt that menopausal symptoms had a negative impact on their work and 47% who needed to take a day off work due to menopause symptoms say they wouldn’t tell their employer the real reason. Source NHS inform.

Other research I came across reported that almost a million women have left their job because of menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes, night sweats and increased anxiety! The symptoms don’t stop there - they include migraines, muscle/joint paint, skin itchiness, depression and tiredness. It made me think that there has to be small changes made that can have a positive impact on women leaving jobs because of menopausal symptoms.

Offering support at work
Offering a channel for employees to discuss menopause issues, or having a support network to feel understood will go a long way.

This might be introducing a policy, having a dedicated person who can offer a confidential ear. What I have read and concluded is that education is the place to start to have a greater understanding for menopause in the workplace.

This resource from CIPD offers advice on risk assessment, confidentiality and how to offer simple changes to working practices to make a difference. https://www.cipd.org/uk/knowledge/guides/menopause-people-manager-guidance/

This 2 minute reel from the BBC is worth watching. It’s a fun and realistic watch of what people think the menopause is/means and busting those myths. Menopause: Busting the most common myths https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-63234486

Do any of my network have strategies in place for managing the workplace menopause?
I’d be interested in what is working for you and we can share a collective approach. Please comment or message me directly with your thoughts.

Finally, ahead of World Menopause Day, this free webinar from 12.00pm – 1.00pm on Tuesday 17th October, shares insights into menopause support at work: what good looks like New webinar: Reality check - the true costs of menopause to businesses - make a difference - workplace culture, mental health, wellbeing