There are a host of practical workplace measures which employers can implement to help support employees going through the menopause.
Chief among these should be a dedicated menopause policy. Such a policy will provide a foundation for fair treatment and serve as a reference for any employee who needs advice and guidance.
Bringing in such a policy demonstrates an organisation is willing and able to listen to employees going through what can be life-changing and challenging times. A menopause policy will amplify the culture of a company, showing it is willing to make changes when necessary. Ultimately, this will lead to higher levels of employee satisfaction, greater retention, and talent attraction.
We have created a menopause template to help your organisation decide what kind of support you can offer employees. Our template not only outlines what the menopause is and who it affects but explains common symptoms and offers practical steps to help people manage them – including flexible working, desk fans, and wellbeing spaces.
In June 2023, sister company Reed conducted a survey of 1,000 employed women in the UK aged 45-54 who are experiencing the menopause. It found that 74% of those questioned agreed that their symptoms affected them physically while they were at work, with 77% saying they were affected mentally.
According to the survey, 46% of respondents said their employer does not have a menopause policy (28% did not know), while 42% said they were not comfortable talking to their employer about the menopause.
Our template can remove any uncertainty staff may have, instilling confidence that they will receive the support they need.
It includes vital information such as:
What is menopause?
How to understand the terminology
Common menopause symptoms and how people can be supported
Key responsibilities and who to contact
Additional support
In 2024, menopause can no longer be swept under the carpet. By using our policy template as a guide, organisations can update their current policy or create a new one.
