Let’s talk menopause
With women over 50 the fastest growing group in the workforce and the average age for the menopause transition being 51, the CIPD human resources professionals’ body has launched new guidance on managing the menopause at work.
For every 10 women experiencing menopausal symptoms, six say it has a negative impact on their work. With the right support, there’s no need for women to press pause on their career during this natural transition. But many women will continue to suffer in silence, the CIPD says.
The CIPD is calling on employers to break the workplace taboo, start talking openly about the menopause at work and provide better support for working women. It recommends that employers educate and train line managers so they are knowledgeable and confident to have sensitive conversations with staff about their symptoms and any adjustments that might be needed.
Downloadable resources from the CIPD website include two posters — one with facts about the menopause and the other a list of dos and don’ts. There is also a leaflet, Let’s talk about menopause.