The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has issued guidance on menopause and the workplace. It is designed to provide practical tips on making reasonable adjustments and fostering positive conversations about the menopause.
Research shows that many working women aged 40-60 have found that their menopausal symptoms have had a negative impact on them at work. Not many have felt able to request workplace adjustments, often expressing concerns about potential reactions. The EHRC has pointed to the importance of employers knowing how to support workers experiencing menopausal symptoms to enable them to continue to contribute to the workplace and benefit from work.
The EHRC also points out that menopausal symptoms are capable of amounting to a disability if they have a long-term and substantial impact on a woman's ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities. If this is the case then an employer will be under a legal obligation to make reasonable adjustments. There's also the possibility that workers experiencing menopausal symptoms may be protected from less favourable treatment related to their symptoms on the grounds of age and sex.
The guidance, which includes a video, sets out what businesses can do to mitigate the impact of menopause on women at work. These measures include providing rest areas and quiet rooms; introducing cooling systems or fans for women experiencing hot flushes; relaxing uniform policies; providing cooler clothing; promoting flexibility of location; and varying shift patterns. Guidance is also provided on having conversations about menopause and the key ways that employers can encourage a culture where workers feel able to talk about their symptoms and ask for adjustments to their work.
Please contact us if you would like advice on how to manage menopause in the workplace. We can also offer you a menopause policy or guidance for a fixed fee.
