The Menopause at work

Perimenopausal and Menopausal women are the fastest growing workforce demographic in the UK. Did you know following statistics?

 

Almost 8 out of 10 of menopausal women are in work.
One in three women in the workforce will soon be over 50 as retirement age in the UK is being pushed
back. This means these women can still be expected to work for at least 15 years past their
menopause.
3 out of 4 women experience symptoms of the menopause, 1 in 4 women experience severe
symptoms and 4 out of 5 women believe their symptoms impact in their ability to work at their best.
2 out of 5 women pass up the opportunity of promotion or actually leave their roles as the don’t feel physically or mentally well enough for the challenge of working when they are perimenopausal or menopausal.

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Hot flushes can happen at work, especially in meetings and presentations.
Headaches can affect concentration.
Insomnia and Poor sleep can impact on performance, memory and concentration.
Erratic and heavy periods can lead to frequent toilet trips or even flooding.
Anxiety over performance and ability.
Low mood affecting working relationships.
Lack of confidence meaning reluctance to apply for promotion.
Poor concentration meaning things get missed.

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How can organisations help their staff?
There are some very practical ways employers can support staff, these include:

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Providing fans for desks,
Giving ladies the desk nearest the window.
Allowing flexible working.
Allowing home working.
Setting up a ‘menopause working group’ or providing staff with a menopause ambassador who can provide support, advice and advocacy services if needed.