3 minute read
Let's shout about menopause
It’s a hotly debated media topic but it’s clear that women need more practical support. How can we all change how we deal with ‘The Change’?
Almost a million women left their job last year because of the impact of menopause on their health and one in four women say severe symptoms affect them every day.*
The Government’s new Menopause Employment Ambassador, broadcaster and TV presenter, Mariella Frostrup, launched the ‘Menopause Mandate’ in 2022 as a platform for women to share their experiences. “We have been absolutely inundated – it’s clear there is a general lack of understanding about women’s biological journey which is so different from men’s. We need a seismic shift in the workplace. Until that’s done, we’re basically throwing money and opportunities away with all these amazing women, at the peak of their professional abilities, migrating from the workforce.”
“Women need to know they are safe to speak boldly about menopause.”
Forward thinking employers across the UK are taking action. “Change can come with conversation. Women need to know they are safe to speak boldly about menopause and the people around them need to have the confidence to ask what support they need,” says Katie Derrick from Mersey Care’s Occupational Health and Wellbeing service. “Women don’t feel they can talk about how they’re feeling because generations before have ‘just got on with it’. We need to crack the cycle and try to understand and destigmatise this completely natural stage of life.
“There’s a huge health inequality and pressure on women at a time when other life events are also taking their toll. Children leaving home and caring responsibilities for grandchildren or ageing parents can mean a woman’s entire identity is in flux – all while they are physically and mentally drained. Women should be able to talk openly with their manager, colleague or anyone else without losing credibility or feeling embarrassed about a problem that’s seriously affecting their life.
“If we’re honest, most people dance around the subject because we’re worried about causing offence. As the culture around menopause evolves, we’re educating managers at Mersey Care making sure they’re familiar with our menopause policy and encouraging them to offer flexible hours, lightweight uniforms and simple but important things like fans or fresh air.
“We run information sessions specifically for men so they can support their colleagues in work and their family members at home. Having understanding will bring compassion and open the door to conversations. It’s the only way forward.”
Sources: *NHS England - nhs.uk GOV.UK - gov.uk
Help to grow
A government menopause resources hub offers free resources to employers wanting to support their staff.
