New NHS ‘Menopause Workplace Pledge‘

NHS England has signed a ‘Menopause Workplace Pledge‘ and is committed to ensuring employees are more supported while at work

CREDIT: This is an edited version of an article that originally appeared on NHS

The menopause, typically, occurs between the ages of 45 and 55 but can also occur in younger women. When it happens, the hormones oestrogen, progesterone and testosterone decline and symptoms start. These often include hot flushes, anxiety, insomnia, problems with concentration and memory, fatigue, headaches, joint pains and low mood.

For many women these are debilitating symptoms that adversely affect their daily lives, work, relationships and also their future health as menopausal women have a greater risk of heart disease, osteoporosis, diabetes, clinical depression and dementia.

The menopause isn’t often talked about at work, despite it being where people can find their symptoms most difficult to manage. For far too long, the menopause has been taboo and many women are left struggling. Research shows that 10% of women leave their jobs, and many reduce their hours or pass up promotions, because of their symptoms. Women make up approximately 75% of the NHS staff; the organisation must support all its employees and encourage open conversations about the menopause.

Last year, NHS England published an internal menopause policy which includes specific guidance on how line managers can support their staff experiencing the menopause. The NHS policy aims to retain their committed staff, make workplaces more supportive and help employees’ well-being and includes allowing flexible or home-based working or making changes to the work environment – such as making the temperature cooler, or ensuring easy access to cold water and bathroom facilities. 

Just as important is the need to normalise conversations about menopause support in the workplace. NHS England believes that signing the Menopause Workplace Pledge is the next step in becoming a more supportive organisation. Led by the charity Wellbeing of Women, the campaign aims to get support from all employers across all sectors up and down the country.