At Harwood Park Crematorium, we’re excited to share that we are gradually upgrading our windows from the original wooden ones to stylish new UPVC in rosewood. This key renovation project is being carried out swiftly and outside of normal working hours to ensure minimal disruption to our
74a High Street - Update
Our new head office on Stevenage High Street is taking shape, with internal walls currently under construction to create private arrangement rooms, chapels of rest, and a service chapel. These facilities will provide a comfortable and private environment for families to make arrangements, and offer a peaceful space for reflection and memorial services. This development ensures we can deliver more personalised and supportive care to our families during their time of need.
Staff Updates
BUSINESS NEWS
services. We’re thrilled to announce that we have recently completed the transformation of the main feature windows in the chapel, enhancing both the beauty and efficiency of our space.
Message from Claire…
We have had a busy three months throughout the Company.
The theme of construction and refurbishment has continued both at Harwood Park and at Austin’s.
We have been focussing on collaborating with the local community, in particular, our support for Stevenage Football Club, Stevenage Community Trust and Feed Up Warm Up. Also, our staff are now able to make a positive impact in the community with our, newly launched, paid Volunteering Scheme.
Over the summer we have welcomed Keenan, from the Barclay Academy. He has proved a great asset to our Operations Team.
In this issue you will learn a little more about some of our Funeral Administrators who work across all twelve of our branches.
We also share images from our annual staff barbecue which was a well-attended and fun afternoon.
I hope you enjoy reading this edition, with updates on the Funeral Profession, our Company and our Team, along with some of the regular features of ‘The Bearer’.
Austin’s Natural Burial Park - Update
The London Plane trees planted earlier this year are thriving, with the mature saplings showing impressive growth. This autumn, we’ll be sowing meadow seeds to ensure a vibrant burst of colour in the coming seasons.
Digital Screen Adverts at Stevenage Football Club
The digital screens pitch-side at Stevenage Football Ground have become a prime location for advertising, and Austin’s campaign is making a notable impact. Featuring Austin’s Funeral Directors and Harwood Park Crematorium, the vibrant visuals capture the attention of football fans, enhancing brand visibility. This strategic placement not only boosts local awareness but also reinforces Austin’s commitment to community engagement and support for local sports.
Lending Librariesposters going up around Hertfordshire
Lending library posters are being displayed at doctors’ surgeries, supermarkets, libraries, and other key locations around Stevenage and the surrounding areas. These posters aim to raise awareness of our free book borrowing service available to all families in the Hertfordshire area. By promoting this initiative, we hope to encourage more families to take advantage of this fantastic resource. The lending library provides access to a wide range of specialist books that support individuals during the grief process.
Funeral Manager - Secure Online Payments
Clients will soon have the convenience of paying online through our website. Families continue to still have the flexibility to pay by cheque, direct bank transfer, or in cash if preferred. To streamline the process, invoices generated by Funeral Manager will contain a direct link to our website for secure and convenient online payments. This new facility aims to
enhance ease and accessibility for our clients, ensuring we meet the diverse needs of all families.
Second Monitor Installation Across All Branches
In July, Kevin visited Austin’s branches across Hertfordshire to install a second monitor for each arranger. This enhancement means the Administration team are able to switch quickly between computer applications with ease.
Local Authority Visits to our Branch Offices
In the June edition of The Bearer, we highlighted that the UK Government had instructed Local Authorities to visit all Funeral Directors in England, in response to the ongoing police investigation into discrepancies found at a funeral Directors in Hull.
As members of the LAFD and NAFD, Austin’s position has been to welcome and encourage this initiative. We understand the importance of trust and integrity in our work, and these visits provide an opportunity for us to demonstrate the high level of care, professionalism, and rigorous standards we uphold across all our branches in Hertfordshire. We are pleased to announce all bar one of our offices have received visits, and all have received excellent feedback from Council representatives.
A huge thank you to all our Branch Funeral Administrators for all their hard work in making this a success.
Community Trust visits Harwood Park Crematorium
Stevenage Community Trust hosted their Member’s Morning at the tranquil Harwood Park Crematorium on Tuesday, 23rd July. Claire Austin and David Hall were joined by the Mayor of Stevenage, Jim Brown, along with numerous valued members of the Trust.
The gathering provided an opportunity for community members to connect, reflect, and discuss the Trust’s ongoing initiatives and future plans. Attendees enjoyed a morning of insightful conversations, networking, and a shared commitment to the community’s wellbeing.
New Roundabout Signs for Harwood Cremations
New roundabout signs advertising Harwood Cremations have been installed at three key locations in Stevenage, outside B&Q on London Road, Canterbury Way, and Gresley Way. These signs aim to provide increased visibility and awareness of Harwood Cremations to the local community. Positioned at high-traffic areas, they ensure that residents and visitors are well-informed about the cremation options available. This strategic placement is expected to enhance the outreach of Harwood Cremations and support to those in need of our services.
Staff Training on Thursday 5th September
On Thursday 5th September at 9am, David Hall will be hosting a training session for all staff at Harwood Park. The training will focus on the upcoming changes to the medical examiner system and how those changes will impact your role. If you are not on annual leave, please make sure you are in attendance. Breakfast will be provided.
Harwood Park Groundsman’s Building
The new Groundsman’s building will be opening soon, and the new facilities are nearing completion. This state-of-the-art building features modern amenities and improved workspaces to better support our groundskeeping team. We are eagerly looking forward to unveiling this enhancement and seeing the positive impact it will have on our operations and the overall upkeep of our beautiful grounds.
Feed Up Warm Up
Claire and Maggie recently caught up with Shane from Feed Up Warm Up to see what the charity had been up to and to see if there is anything we can help with. Claire passed on a cheque in memory of their loved one, donated to the charity by a family whose bench at Harwood Park was recently refurbished.
Autumn / Winter is one of the busiest times for the charity and Shane explained they are desperately looking for donations for 2-man pop up tents, ground mats, clothing, warm coats, and trainers for men and women (all sizes). He is also looking for ideas for fundraising so, any suggestions and/or donations would be greatly appreciated.
Here is the link to their website www.feedupwarmup.co.uk
BIG Summer Networking Event
In August, Claire and Amanda Mac attended the Women in Business Network Big Summer Networking Event to highlight the range of comprehensive funeral services we offer and the compassionate care and support we provide to families and the local community. This networking opportunity not only increased our visibility within the business community but also reinforced our commitment to supporting families with the highest standards of service.
INDUSTRY NEWS
Changes to the Medical Examiner System - Update
Although there is little information that has been officially released, through the various associations some snippets are in the public domain. The Government has set in the statues that the cross over to the new process will take place on Monday 9th September. We have the revised Form 1 Application for Cremation, along with a new instruction form. These will be released at the proper time and will be available on our website to download. We will have a full staff meeting to cover all the changes. The date for the meeting will be announced in due course.
In the meantime, here is a quick summary of crucial changes:
The medical examiner role: to provide independent scrutiny of causes of death, this will be a senior medical practitioner.
Medical examiners will review the cause of death as given by the attending practitioner, who can complete a Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD) based on their knowledge and belief. This simplifies the previous rules.
New
Medical
Certificate of Cause of Death
(MCCD): A revised MCCD will replace the existing certificate and
will include details of the medical examiner and additional information regarding the person who has died. In exceptional circumstances: If an attending practitioner is unavailable, the death will be referred to the coroner. If the coroner decides not to investigate, it will be possible for them to refer to a medical examiner to certify the death.
The coroner’s investigation process remains unchanged. Referrals to the coroner will be made by the attending practitioner or the medical examiner, instead of the registrar.
Once the cause of death is confirmed by the attending practitioner and the medical examiner, and the declarations of certification and scrutiny have been completed, the MCCD is sent to the registrar. Advise your clients that in the initial weeks and months there may be Increased timescales for registering a death. (It may take longer for deaths to be certified and registered due to the need for a medical examiner to complete an MCCD and for this to be sent to the registrar).
This is the point at which it will be possible for the representative of the deceased (who will be notified) to arrange the registration of the death through the registry office. The
deceased’s partner or representative will be formally allowed to register the death, expanding the categories of informants.
It is a statutory requirement to register the death within five days. This timeframe will not start until the registrar receives notification of the cause of death from the medical examiner or a coroner. The representative of the deceased should be aware of the cause of death before registration and should be able to raise any concerns with the medical examiner, or the coroner.
The scrutiny previously conducted by a medical referee before a cremation is mainly transferred to the medical examiner, The medical referee will remain in place to ensure that the other legislation is complied with.
Every Day is a School Day
The LAFD have released a number of CPD opportunities through the Learn with London project. Their 2024 – 2025 programme includes the Advanced Certificate in Funeral Arranging and Administration. Course 1 commences September 24, will run online for 10 weeks followed by an in-person exam, and will be led by our very own David Hall, Harwood Park Crematorium Superintendent and NAFD and LAFD Tutor. Additionally, the LAFD’s Learn with London programme covers short online and in-person courses covering First Aid, Conducting a Funeral, The Changing Face of Funerals in London, and signposts students to other CPD opportunities through the NAFD, AFMS, ICCM and Cruse Bereavement Support. For more information, please enter the link below into your web browser. www.lafd.org.uk/education
STAFF UPDATES
The Austin’s Mobile Funeral Arrangement Team
In this month’s staff newsletter, we shine a spotlight on our Mobile Funeral Arrangers, a team whose role is as vital as it is challenging. These dedicated professionals step in to ensure seamless service across our branches, providing essential support to bereaved families during their most vulnerable moments. The demands of the role are significant—they must quickly adapt to different branch environments, manage varying funeral arrangements, and maintain the highest standards of care and respect. Despite these challenges, our Mobile Funeral Arrangers find deep satisfaction in their work, driven by their commitment to supporting their team, and helping families create meaningful and respectful farewells for their loved ones. Their stories reflect the compassion, adaptability, and dedication required to excel in this important role.
Caroline Green
Caroline, you have worked for Austins for nearly two years as a mobile funeral arranger. Why did you decide to work for Austin’s?
Having worked for the mortuary and bereavement service in the NHS for 15 years, I was ready for a new challenge. I wanted to find a role that was rewarding and focused on the helping families through the next stages of their bereavement. During my career with the NHS, I had a good relationship with the Austin’s staff who regularly visited the Lister Mortuary as part of their service. I found them incredibly respectful and having seen how Austin’s operates, I thought it would be a good company to work for. Since I started in November 2022, I’ve found this role enables me to help the
families create the best farewell they can for their loved one.
Tell me a little about your experience as a mobile funeral arranger It can sometimes be challenging but I like the variety and I have really enjoyed going out to all the branches, getting to know all the ladies and how they work. Being a mobile funeral arranger for Austin’s means I am part of a small team who provide cover for each of the branch offices when the resident funeral arranger is away from the business, on holiday for example. So, in the absence of the branch funeral arranger, it is our responsibility to ensure that all funeral arrangements continue to run smoothly. I’ve found that each arranger works slightly differently to accomplish the same result – which is to ensure each family has the best possible service, so the first day of going into a branch office can often feel very daunting. However, provided there is adequate communication in the handover, you find you’re soon able to run with it, aand pick up the arrangements, letting families know that the service can continue. So, I always make a point of introducing myself to the families to ask them if there is anything they need, and to let them know I will be there to help during the process. For me, it’s about doing 100% your best effort for the family even if you may only be there for a few days, it’s my job to make sure we can keep the arrangements running smoothly and that everything is in order for the arranger returning to her office – leaving clear handover notes for them and ensuring the office is clean and tidy. We also carry out home visits for funeral plans or for ‘at need‘ funerals, when a family requests it.
It is also worth mentioning that I would never expect the arranger whose office I am covering
to feel like they must get all the work finished, so there is nothing for me to do in their absence. It’s lovely that they don’t want to overburden me, but I do not mind picking up the work where they’ve had to leave off, because I’m there to work as hard as I can. I want to reassure every arranger that when I go into their office I will work as closely as possible to the same way they do, and to ensure that when they come back, everything is up to date, and they have clear handover notes, and they can always contact me if anything is unclear that they need to discuss further.
I know you’ve enjoyed your time here so far, so let’s talk about your favourite memory
I think it has got to be the connection I made with a family whose young son died in traumatic circumstances. Having the privilege of being more involved in the arrangement – being able to see the funeral through from start to finish (which is not something the role enables me to always do as a mobile arranger), meant so much to me, and I appreciated being able to continue the relationship with the family. They asked me to attend the funeral which was really humbling and to this day I still hear from his mum, and it is nice to know we have built up that relationship of trust and confidence.
Caroline, thank you for your time today, it’s been lovely to hear of your time so far at Austins. Just one final question for you, What advice would you give anyone thinking of a career in the funeral industry?
Working with bereaved families is very rewarding. You have to put in a lot of effort and hard work to make sure everything is all perfect for them on the day. I’ve been able to meet so many interesting people and it’s a privilege to be able to support them during some of the most difficult days of their lives. Whilst you need to be hardworking and diligent, above all be kind and compassionate – both to the bereaved families and your fellow colleagues.
Jane Watts
Jane , you’ve worked for Austins as a mobile funeral arranger for nearly two and a half years. Would you tell me please, why you decided to enter this profession and why did you chose to work for Austin’s?
I had a chance encounter with a member of the management team of Austin’s who mentioned there may be opportunities to work as a Funeral Arranger at some point in the future. At the time, I was happy where I was, but when the opportunity arose, I really didn’t need to think twice about it. I liked the idea of working for a well-respected family run business, one that I would describe as ‘The Rolls Royce of Funeral Directors.’ I knew I really wanted to apply for this role, as it would be a job that would give a great deal of satisfaction in helping others during one of the most distressing times of their life. Instinctively I knew that I wanted help families and do my best to make the process of organising a funeral as easy as it could be for them. I was thrilled when I was offered the job and have not looked back! That said, I had not quite anticipated how much there was to learn! I was studying for the exam, learning the new role, and about each office and learning about prepaid funeral plans. It has been an intense but satisfying couple of years. I still learn something new every day, however I feel like I have ‘got there now’ …just about and understand the funeral process. I don’t think people outside of the profession realise just how much is involved in organising a funeral, I know that I didn’t. I fully respect the important role that all the staff at our Head Office play in caring for the deceased, the funeral conductors, chauffeurs and bearers and many more behind the scenes, it really is teamwork that brings everything together on the day to
ensure everything is perfect for the families and they have the sendoff they desire for their loved ones.
Tell me a little about your experience as a mobile funeral arranger
As a mobile arranger, I do get to build up a rapport with the funeral arrangers as I see them and speak to them on the phone more regularly, so that is a nice thing. I think I’m well suited to working as one of the mobile team as I like the variety and I get to learn and have a better understanding of the local area. I
“I was thrilled when I was offered the job and have not looked back!”
think it’s important to have local knowledge when working at a branch office, so that advice can be given to families of all the options available to them. Sitting with a family to arrange a funeral service for their loved one is satisfying because I’m helping them through a difficult process and for some people this can be very daunting as, it might be their first time they’ve had to do this. it’s down to me to guide them and talk them through the process. I’ve really settled into the job now and look forward to a long and happy career at Austin’s.
I know you’ve enjoyed your time here so far, so let’s talk about your most memorable experience working for Austin’s so far.
I like the social events. It is lovely that Claire opens her home to the staff and their
families and looks after us so well. Last year my daughter Emma came with me for the first time, she was quite apprehensive and told me not to leave her on her own - but she had a brilliant time and really enjoyed herself and was off chatting to people!
We were looking forward to this year, but unfortunately can’t make it due to an event on the same day that was booked some months ago…there’s always next year though!
Jane, thank you for your time today, I know you’re a busy woman! It’s been lovely to hear of your time at Austin’s. Just one final question for you, what advice would you give anyone thinking of a career as a funeral arranger?
You must be meticulous with your paperwork. I still double, sometimes treble, quadruple check my work even when I know I’ve done what I should. You must be on the money with your paperwork. Be prepared to have the odd sleepless night as you can doubt yourself sometimes. I’m sure I’m not the only one, I think we have all been through it at some point. We only have the one opportunity to get it right and that’s why it’s crucial that nothing is missed.
It’s a constant learning process which I like. There are times when you can be particularly busy and under pressure so you can feel a bit like you’re spinning plates. On a practical note - always offer your families a drink as it makes people feel at ease – have a good stock of biscuits too as they can be a nice distraction for them.
Vee Marsh
Vee, you’ve worked for nearly two years as a mobile funeral arranger, why did you decide to work for Austin’s?
I worked for another funeral directors for eight and half years. When I was looking to leave, I had already decided if I were to stay in this industry, I would only work for Austin’s. Unfortunately, Austin’s weren’t looking for any staff at that time, so I was considering a change of career. Luckily for me, a short time later - and I remember it was the day of the Queens funeral - my friend texted me and said that Austin’s were looking for funeral arrangers, so I applied and got the job! For me Austin’s has always been the crème de la crème of Funeral Directors because their reputation in Hertfordshire and in the industry itself is such a good one. In the past, I had attended a number of funerals arranged by Austin’s, I have seen first-hand how much care is taken over the service and how respectful the staff were.
Tell me a little about your experience as a mobile funeral arranger at Austin’s
I like being a mobile arranger because it is nice to have a change of scenery and variety of work. No two days are the same. What I really enjoy, is because we have so many branches in Hertfordshire, you get to meet lots of different people and get the opportunity to learn about each area. When I work at one branch one week, and another the following week, I still think about the arrangements I had been involved in previously. What
by Stuart McQueen
Stuart has kindly shared more photos for us to include in this issue of The Bearer. For this edition, Stuart has chosen the theme of poppies for Remembrance Day.
I have found is that communication with everyone is really importantwhether it be with the branch funeral arranger, the celebrant, the conductor or crematorium. It’s important that nothing gets missed. I also work at our head office which is also our main chapels of rest. I cover reception when Chelsea is away and this adds variety as I get more involved in dealing with the paperwork, chapel viewings and release of personal possessions and cremated remains to families. Even though I’m at head office there’s still lots of contact with families and that’s very rewarding. Sometimes when I’ve been involved in an arrangement at a branch office, and then I’m at head office when the family visit, you still have the continuation of contact with the family. Which is lovely.
I know you’ve enjoyed your time here so far, so let’s talk about your memorable experiences of working at Austin’s so far.
Austin’s is a family run business, it’s not like the large organisations where numbers are more important than people, and the staff have been here a long time – so it just shows how loyal the staff are to the Austin’s family. I’ve been made to feel really welcome. When I started working for Austins each branch arranger was really welcoming and lovely. I’m really happy and relaxed working here, which is so important to me.
I also really like that we are given the time to support
our families, which is so important in this job. When making a funeral arrangement, we are not set time limits. We’re allowed to assess the needs of the family and give them what they need in that moment.
I recently met with a gentleman at our Hoddesdon branch who had been diagnosed with cancer. He didn’t know how to tell his son, so I sat with him for a while and told him about charities that could support him. We talked about funeral arrangements, and he asked for me to price a funeral up for him which I did. At the end, he said thank you very much for taking the time to sit with me and help. He said that he had been to another Funeral Directors first, who were not interested in taking the time to talk to him. That meeting will always be a special memory for me.
It’s been lovely to hear of your time so far at Austins. Just one final question for you, What advice would you give anyone thinking of a career in the funeral industry?
The work is a vocation. It is definitely not a 9-5 job. It is impossible to go home and switch off completely. You need to be empathetic, sympathetic and sincerely caring when dealing with families who are at their most vulnerable time. Because bereaved families really do see if you sincerely care or not.
Photo’s
Photo Competition
1st prize goes to Jackie at Hitchin for sharing this fab photo of Ted celebrating his sixth birthday. Thank you to all who entered ….
Congratulations Arlen
Congratulations to Arlen Phypers who joined Harwood Park as a Crematorium Groundsman six years ago this month. We are delighted to update you that Arlen has now been appointed as Deputy Head Crematorium Groundsman.
Congratulations Michael Funeral Conductor
Michael Bryan was recently awarded a blood donor certificate and pin badge from the NHS Blood and Transplant unit for his regular contributions to giving blood. Michael, who has given blood regularly over the years reached the 25-donation mark in over Summer. Congratulations Michael on this milestone achievement.
Michael has suggested that if any staff are interested in becoming a blood donor, he would happily point them in the right direction.
Jackie
Danny
Jane
Vee
“I’m not a llama, I’m an Alpaca”
Volunteering opportunities
We’re excited to announce that all staff can now participate in our new volunteering scheme, with 8 paid hours each year dedicated to supporting a registered charity or community cause. This means you can make a positive impact in the community while still receiving your regular pay.
Our current list includes wonderful local charities such as:
• Stevenage Community Trust
• Feed Up Warm Up,
• Grief Garden Path Bereavement Cafe,
• East and North Herts Hospital’s Charity
• The Anne Robson Trust - Butterfly Volunteers.
If you’re passionate about a charity or community organisation that’s not yet on the list, please let Amanda Mac know and we can include it. This is a fantastic opportunity to give back while being supported by the company!
Kerry is also looking for volunteers for the Scouting cause! If you’re interested in giving young people a skill for life, please email Kerry.hall@stevenagescouting.org.uk
Ashwell Show
We were delighted to sponsor the annual Ashwell Show on Monday 26th August. The Austin’s team were given the opportunity to have free tickets to attend the show. It was a fabulously sunny day and there were some great exhibitors and displays.
Fire Walk for Charity
Join Claire, Amanda Mac, Chelsea and Vee and do a fire walk for the East & North Hertfordshire Hospitals’ Charity at Lister Hospital on Friday 1st November. Details in the infographic below. If you would like to take part, please let Amanda know.
Euro 24 Sweepstake Winners
Harwood Park and Austin’s ran two separate sweepstakes for the Euro 24 Football Championships. The winning team was Spain. At Harwood Park, Gary Ford won 1st Place and at Austin’s, Michael Bryan won 1st Place. Gary is pictured left his with Award!
Thank you and Good Luck at School Keenan
During July and August, the staff at head office were joined by local Stevenage student, Keenan. Keenan has been shadowing the Operations Team, helping out in the yard and going on branch visits around Hertfordshire. He also recently joined us at our annual staff BBQ! He’s been a huge help to the team and has endeared himself to staff and families alike.
Keenan’s last day with us at Austin’s was Friday 30th September. The team at head office clubbed together for a card and a little thank you present for him, and Claire presented him with a gift voucher. Good luck at school Keenan, and we hope to see you again during half term.
Attending Prom in Style
Accounts Administrator
Nicola Kennedy and her son Thomas attended his School Prom in chauffeur driven style in July. Stuart drove Nicola and Thomas to the event in one of Austin’s limousines. Nicola and Thomas pictured here before the big event.
A beautiful day shared with friends and some great memories made.
CELEBRATIONS
SEPTEMBER
OCTOBER
CELEBRATIONS
Work Anniversaries
This Summer themed word wheel is made from the letters in the word SUNBATHER. Try and make as many words of any length as you can from these letters. You can only use each letter once, and each word must include the letter B
B E R N H U S T A
WELL BEING AT WORK Spotlight on… Menopause
Perimenopause and Menopause
Perimenopause marks the beginning of the transition into menopause. During this phase, you may experience menopause-like symptoms while still having periods. Once you’ve gone 12 consecutive months without a period, you have reached menopause. Both perimenopause and menopause can cause symptoms such as anxiety, mood swings, brain fog, and hot flashes, significantly impacting your daily life, including relationships and work.
Menopause occurs when a woman’s periods stop completely due to a decrease in hormone levels, typically affecting women between the ages of 45 and 55, though it can happen earlier. Menopause can occur naturally or be triggered by surgeries like oophorectomy (removal of the ovaries) or hysterectomy (removal of the uterus), as well as treatments like chemotherapy.
Symptoms
The symptoms of menopause and perimenopause can greatly affect your daily life, including your relationships, social interactions, family life, and work. Everyone’s experience is different; some may have many symptoms, while others may have few or none at all.
Mental Health Symptoms: These can include mood changes, low mood, anxiety, mood swings, low selfesteem, and issues with memory or
A qualified Mental Health Responder, Amanda can support you with any mental health questions.
concentration, often referred to as “brain fog.”
Physical Symptoms: Common physical symptoms include hot flashes—sudden feelings of heat in the face, neck, and chest that can cause dizziness. Sleep disturbances, often due to night sweats, can lead to daytime fatigue and irritability. Other symptoms may include palpitations, headaches, migraines, muscle aches, joint pain, weight gain, and skin changes like dryness and itching. These symptoms can last for months or years and may evolve over time.
Ways to Manage Symptoms
Taking care of overall health can help manage symptoms and maintain wellness for the future. Consider the following:
• Prioritize rest and maintain a regular sleep routine.
• Eat a healthy diet, including calciumrich foods like milk, yogurt, and kale to support bone health.
• Engage in regular exercise, particularly weight-bearing activities such as dancing, walking, and running. Yoga and meditation are also beneficial.
• Reduce or quit smoking, and adhere to recommended alcohol limits.
Treatment Options
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is a safe and effective treatment for many experiencing perimenopause and menopause. A doctor will discuss
WELLBEING CHAMPIONS
With experience and an interest in mental Health and wellbeing, Danny can offer practical support.
any potential risks. HRT involves supplementing estrogen to balance the body’s hormone levels, with different types and doses available. The right treatment plan can alleviate symptoms. If a woman still has a womb, she will also need to take progesterone to protect the uterine lining from the effects of estrogen.
Menopause in the Workplace
Managing menopause symptoms at work can be challenging, and some women may hesitate to discuss their symptoms with their employer. However, it’s important to remember that menopause is a normal life stage, and support should be available. Employers should have procedures and support systems in place to assist staff affected by menopause. Regular, open conversations can ensure that the necessary accommodations are made so that employees can perform their jobs effectively. Employers should also consider how certain job roles and responsibilities might exacerbate menopause symptoms. Proactive measures can help address potential challenges before they become problematic, ensuring that staff feel comfortable discussing how menopause is affecting their work.
Useful Resources
For more information and support, visit:
• Menopause Matters
• Menopause Support
As HR Rep, Maggie is here for anyone wanting to talk about their mental wellbeing.
