Menopause Advisory Group formed to boost workplace support

Thousands of women are set to benefit from plans to boost workplace support as leaders from across industry, healthcare and the legal profession came together today to form the first-ever independent Menopause Advisory Group.

Figures from the Chartered Institute for Personnel and Development revealed that over half of women experiencing menopause (53%) have not been able to attend work due to their symptoms, with 10% leaving work for good – costing businesses around £1.5bn every year.

Convened by the Government’s Menopause Employment Ambassador, Mariella Frostrup, the group discussed the impact menopause can have on workers, current efforts to support women in work and businesses can work in partnership with government to ensure women don’t fall out of the work force due to menopause.

It comes alongside the Government’s wider efforts to break down barriers to work, keep people in work and create a thriving and inclusive labour market which is central to unlocking economic growth as part of the plan for change.

Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall said: “For too long working women have suffered in silence or stopped working when they experience the menopause – a completely natural and normal part of life.

“A taboo and lack of understanding is holding back our nation’s growth and it’s time to tackle it head on.

“The first ever independent Menopause Advisory Group will bring together huge knowledge and experience on this vital issue so we can give women the support they need to remain and thrive in work, putting money in people’s pockets and delivering growth for our economy as part of the Plan for Change.”

Frostrup added: “I’m delighted to have this incredible group of professionals helping me ensure that women in midlife, a time when we often have to balance so much responsibility, are properly supported at work.

“Far too many experienced and capable women are forced out of employment through no fault of their own, hurting their earnings and our nation’s economy. Together we can create a more supportive and happier workplace where everyone can succeed.”

Reaction:

Fiona Vines, director of inclusion and wellbeing at BT:

“We are proud to host the launch of the Government’s Menopause Employment Ambassador’s Advisory Group.

“At BT Group we understand the importance of supporting women’s health in the workplace.

“This event is an important opportunity to bring business leaders together with key government ministers to promote awareness and implement strategies to improve workplace support for women affected by menopause.”

Jon Paull, COO at Octopus Energy:

“Menopause affects half the population, yet for too long women were expected to manage it in silence.

“We support our team members through this transition so they can continue to do their jobs with confidence while being the best versions of themselves at work.

“This isn’t just good for their wellbeing and the happiness of our teams but also incredibly good for business. A true win-win.”