Women in 'vicious cycle' as survey suggests many workplaces have no menopause policy

Summary

A survey by Perspectus found that 50% of women aged 45+ do not have a menopause policy in the workplace, while only 10% have a definitive policy. Menopause can cause major, moderate, and slight difficulties at work, but only 37% of managers have been offered training around menopause. There is a need for more support in the workplace for menopausal women, as 75% report considering quitting their job or reducing their hours due to a lack of menopause support. Employers should consider introducing flexible work arrangements, support groups, and employee assistance programmes to create a supportive and inclusive environment.

Q&As

AI Comments

👍 This article provides excellent insight into the struggles many women face in the workplace during menopause and how employers can help support them. It's great to see initiatives like this being discussed and implemented to make the workplace a better and more inclusive environment.

👎 This article is missing a key component in understanding how menopause affects the workplace, which is the perspectives of those who experience it. It's concerning that the voices of those most affected by the issue have not been heard.

AI Discussion

Me: The article is about how many workplaces lack a menopause policy, and how it can impact women's productivity and retention. It also discusses the lack of understanding and support for menopausal women in the workplace, and the need for employers to provide better resources and education for managers.

Friend: Wow, that's really concerning. It's important that employers recognize the impact menopause can have and provide the necessary resources to support employees.

Me: Absolutely. Not only does it help with retention and productivity, but it can also help reduce discrimination and stigma around menopause. Plus, it can help with legal and financial implications if employers are not providing the necessary support.

Action items

• Educate yourself and your team on the menopause and its symptoms.
• Create a menopause policy in the workplace that outlines how to support employees through the menopause.
• Offer flexible work arrangements and access to support groups and employee assistance programmes to employees struggling with menopause symptoms.

Technical terms

Menopause Policy

A policy that outlines the support and provisions that employers should provide to employees going through menopause.

Brain Fog

A feeling of confusion or lack of focus.

Memory Loss

The inability to remember or recall information.

Tiredness

A feeling of exhaustion or lack of energy.

Irritability

A feeling of being easily annoyed or angered.

Employee Assistance Program

A program that provides employees with access to resources and support to help them manage personal and work-related issues.

EDI Training

Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion training, which is designed to help employers create a more equitable and inclusive workplace.

ESG

Environmental, Social, and Governance, which is a set of standards for a company’s operations that focus on environmental protection, social responsibility, and corporate governance.

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