Download your free guide now and take the first step in creating a more supportive and legally compliant workplace.
Menopause is a natural stage of life, yet its impact on employees in the workplace is still often underestimated. From concentration difficulties and increased stress levels to physical symptoms that make work challenging, menopause can significantly affect performance, wellbeing, and retention rates.
Did you know?
- Two-thirds of working women aged 40-60 say menopause symptoms negatively impact their work (CIPD)i
- 79% find it harder to concentrate at work due to menopause-related symptoms (CIPD)ii
- 1 in 10 women have left a job because of menopause, and a further 13% have considered it (Fawcett Society)iii
Despite these staggering statistics, 80% of women say their employer has not provided information, training, or policies to support them. The reality is that failing to address menopause in the workplace can lead to increased absenteeism, lost productivity, and even legal challenges. Employers must act now to create a more inclusive and supportive working environment.
Why Employers Need a Menopause Strategy
Menopause itself is not a protected characteristic under the Equality Act 2010, but failing to support affected employees can still lead to legal issues. Employees experiencing menopause-related difficulties may be protected under provisions related to sex, age, or disability discrimination.
Recent Employment Tribunal cases have shown that businesses which fail to make reasonable adjustments for employees going through menopause can face significant financial and reputational risks. In one case, a woman was awarded £37,000 after her employer dismissed her menopause symptoms as an “excuse.” In another case a nurse won a discrimination claim after being unfairly dismissed due to brain fog and memory issues related to perimenopause.
These cases highlight a crucial takeaway for businesses: not acting now to implement a menopause strategy, in particular a policy and manager training, isn’t just an oversight, it’s a legal risk.
What’s Inside Our Employer’s Guide?
Our downloadable ebook, Menopause in the Workplace: An Employer’s Guide, is a must-have resource for businesses looking to get ahead in supporting their workforce. Inside, you’ll find:
- A breakdown of what menopause is and the different stages employees may experience
- The impact of menopause on work performance, from absenteeism to reduced productivity
- An overview of legal responsibilities for employers and how to avoid potential discrimination claims
- Real-life case studies illustrating how poor menopause management has led to costly Tribunal cases
- Best practice recommendations, including how to create a menopause-friendly workplace and implement practical HR policies
- A best practice checklist to help assess how well your organisation is supporting menopausal employees
- Expert legal and HR guidance on how to develop and implement menopause policies effectively
With more employees than ever working through the menopause, it’s crucial to have the right policies and training in place. Download your free guide now and take the first step in creating a more supportive and legally compliant workplace.
Want tailored support? Get in touch with our team today and find out how we can help your business implement best-practice menopause strategies.
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This article offers a snapshot of what’s involved in creating a more supportive and legally compliant workplace. To find out more, download our comprehensive guide.
