Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced the appointment of Mariella Frostrup as the Government’s first Women’s Employment Ambassador, as part of a broader effort to support women’s health at work and reduce economic inactivity.
The newly created role expands on Frostrup’s previous position as Menopause Employment Ambassador, reflecting a wider focus on health issues affecting women throughout their working lives.
In her new remit, she will work with employers to raise awareness, identify barriers and promote better workplace support.
The announcement comes alongside a push for large employers to introduce voluntary action plans aimed at supporting employees experiencing menopause symptoms.
Businesses with more than 250 staff are being encouraged to commit to at least one measure, such as workplace adjustments or support groups.
The initiative forms part of wider Government efforts to address the rising number of women leaving the workforce due to long-term health conditions, which has reached around 1.48 million.
The Government estimated that menopause-related absence and workforce exits cost the UK economy £1.7bn each year.
In her previous role, Frostrup oversaw the launch of the Menopause Advisory Group and engaged with hundreds of employers on improving workplace support.
The expanded ambassador role will now take a broader view, covering conditions such as endometriosis and fibroids, which can affect women earlier in their careers.
Employment Minister Dame Diana Johnson said: “Too many women still face barriers that prevent them from reaching their full potential in the workplace.
“This new ambassador role sends a clear signal that we are serious about changing that, and Mariella Frostrup is the ideal person to take this on
“By championing the brilliant contributions women make — as entrepreneurs, workers, and leaders — we can unlock economic growth that benefits everyone.”
Frostrup added: “Menopause support in the workplace has come a long way, and that progress is something to be proud of, but it cannot be where our ambition stops.
“Women’s health affects their working lives long before menopause, and for too long many have been navigating these challenges without the right support around them.
“Every woman deserves to know, at every stage of her career, that her health will not be a barrier to her success. I am delighted to take on this role and look forward to working with employers across the country support their imperative female workforce and retain them.”
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