Breaking Barriers: Supporting Women Through Menopause at Work

Despite affecting approximately 51% of the population, there persists a significant lack of understanding surrounding menopause and its impact on employees. Dealers play a pivotal role in advocating for inclusive work environments and guiding businesses towards effectively supporting women experiencing menopause

According to the government report ‘Menopause and the workplace’, despite affecting 51% of the population, there remains insufficient understanding or awareness of the menopause and its impacts on employees. The report underlines a clear imperative to better facilitate the needs of those experiencing this transformative stage while navigating the workplace.

According to research conducted by Bupa, nearly one million women have departed from their jobs due to menopausal symptoms. Additionally, findings from the CIPD indicate that approximately 17% of individuals have contemplated leaving their employment due to insufficient support for their menopausal symptoms.

To support women experiencing menopause, it’s crucial for businesses to fully understand the effects and symptoms that may require adjustments or assistance to enhance their work experience. This presents an opportunity for dealers to create a lasting impact by recommending and promoting products that enable women in menopause to maintain their productivity and well-being in the workplace.

Physical adjustments

While many associate menopause symptoms primarily with the dreaded hot flushes, addressing the physical symptoms of menopause entails more than simply installing fans (though that can be quite beneficial!). There are numerous physical symptoms to consider, including fatigue, anxiety, memory and concentration issues, as well as joint pain, among others.

Dealers play a vital role in fostering inclusive work environments by advocating for the needs of women undergoing menopause in workspace designs. Encouraging thoughtful layouts that include quiet, secluded areas away from disruptions and introducing products aimed at enhancing focus and concentration, like portable dividers for creating individual workspaces and privacy is a great place to start. Dealers are also well-positioned to steer customers towards suitable choices in specialised seating, such as office chairs with advanced orthopaedic design that reduce pressure on the spine and joints.

Promoting sensitivity

The menopausal journey is deeply personal, demanding understanding and sensitivity from colleagues and managers alike. Women undergoing menopause often feel alienated or sidelined in workplace interactions. It’s essential to show these individuals that they are valued members of the team whose needs are considered. Even small gestures, like promoting menopause first aid training for staff, can contribute significantly to fostering inclusivity. Dealers can further these efforts by ensuring customers are informed about available products, including feminine hygiene and menstrual products tailored to diverse ages and needs.

Despite living in a modern era, the menopause remains shrouded in stigma. To combat this, businesses should openly display their support through the implementation of a clear and transparent menopause policy. This can be bolstered by the inclusion of information posters and literature which can be made available to all staff.

It is important to emphasise that ensuring the workplace is suitable for women experiencing the menopause is about much more than comfort and inclusion, although these aspects are crucial. It’s also about retaining valuable members of the workforce and the wealth of skills and experience they bring. Menopause is a natural phase of life, yet it remains a topic many are hesitant to discuss openly. Perhaps it’s time for dealers to initiate conversations about how businesses can more effectively address the needs of women in this significant life stage.