Menopause Awareness Month: Supporting women in the workplace

As Menopause Awareness Month draws to a close, it’s the perfect time for organisations to recognise the impact of this natural life transition on their employees. Menopause can bring about a range of physical and emotional symptoms, and it’s essential for workplaces to provide the necessary support and resources for individuals going through this stage – without shame, or feeling they can’t be seen experiencing symptoms at work.

The power of the EAP

One way companies can support their employees is by offering an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) that includes counselling and access advice specifically tailored to menopause-related issues. This can provide a safe and confidential space for individuals to discuss their concerns and seek guidance on managing symptoms. In addition, having access to a virtual GP can be invaluable for employees who may need to speak to a clinical professional for further support or medical advice.

Creating a workplace culture that encourages open discussions about life events, including menopause, is also crucial. Managers should be understanding and accommodating, allowing flexibility for employees who may be experiencing symptoms that affect their work performance. This might mean providing some additional training or workshops for other employees, line managers and supervisors about how to talk appropriately about menopause in the workplace.

Resources that actually help

Signposting employees to resources that can help mitigate symptoms of menopause is also a good way to provide wellbeing support – for example, physical activity and nutrition can achieve up to 50% reduction in the severity of menopause symptoms such as hot flashes and mood swings. 

Figures show that 80% of women experience menopausal symptoms, with 25% reporting that these symptoms have a significant impact on their work. Furthermore, research indicates that a supportive work environment can greatly improve the experience of menopause for employees, leading to higher job satisfaction and retention rates.

At My Staff Shop, we understand the importance of prioritising employee wellbeing. Our tailored wellbeing packages include access to EAP services, virtual GP consultations, and resources to support employees through life transitions such as menopause. Get in touch with us today to learn more about how we can help support your employees through every stage of their lives.