Supporting staff experiencing menopause

Why is menopause a workplace issue?

75-80% of women of menopausal age are in work
75% of women experience menopausal symptoms, of which 25% experience serious symptoms
Around 60% of women experiencing menopausal symptoms state this has a negative impact on them in the workplace, but only a quarter feel able to discuss this with their line manager
25% of women going through the menopause had considered leaving work because of their experiences

(Source: CIPD 2019)

Support for staff

We want to create a working culture where the impact of menopause on women in the workplace is discussed openly and without embarrassment and where staff experiencing menopausal symptoms are able to ask for and receive appropriate support. Not everyone who goes through menopause will necessarily identify as a woman and our support and guidance is inclusive of staff of all gender identities who experience menopause:

We have a Framework for Supporting Staff Experiencing Menopause, so that staff and managers have clear guidance on workplace support and adjustments
The University's Women's Network hold regular Menopause Cafes that all staff experiencing menopause are welcome to attend
The Staff ED&I Team host a termly online Menopause workshop (delivered by Henpicked) that is open to all staff who may be experiencing menopause or would like to find out more about supporting staff and colleagues. To register for the next session please email: hreditraining@contacts.bham.ac.uk
The College of Medical & Dental Sciences has developed College guidance on menopause

What can I do?

Whether or not you are experiencing or will experience menopause yourself, there is lots you can do to increase your knowledge and support staff who are:

Read the University Menopause Framework

The Menopause Framework has been developed as part of the University’s commitment to providing an inclusive and supportive environment for all staff. It is intended to help raise awareness and understanding of menopause and its impact on women in the workplace and to help break down barriers and encourage conversations between managers and staff.

Become a UoB Menopause Ally

The Staff ED&I Team host a termly online lunchtime workshop that all staff are welcome to attend to learn more about the menopause and how to support staff and colleagues. The workshop is delivered by Birmingham Hospital Saturday Fund (BHSF). To register for a session, please email: hreditraining@contacts.bham.ac.uk

Visit the Henpicked website

Henpicked has a wide range of menopause resources that are free to access, includng regular live 'lunch and learn' webinars.