How Can Employers Better Support Women Going Through Menopause in the Workplace?

Menopause affects 13 million women in the UK—about a third of the female population. Three in five women will experience symptoms at some point during this transition, yet a lack of awareness and understanding in the workplace remains a significant issue.

But many employers still have little understanding that it can trigger a range of debilitating symptoms, from sleep problems to anxiety and concentration issues. As a result, many companies are doing little to support staff going through the perimenopause – the lead up to the menopause – and the menopause itself.

Making the Business Case for Menopause Support

Household names including Holland & Barrett, Tesco, Premier Inn, British Airways and Rolls-Royce, now leading the way to support women in the workplace. Small businesses across the UK are increasingly recognising the importance of supporting women’s health in the workplace. Embracing this initiative is more than just a gesture of goodwill; it’s a strategic decision that can significantly boost productivity, reduce absenteeism, improve employee satisfaction, and enhance overall business performance. 

Prioritising women’s health not only creates a more inclusive and supportive work environment but also enhances a company’s ability to attract and retain talent, resulting in a happier and more productive team driving the growth of their businesses. 

However, despite the clear benefits, many women still face significant health challenges at work. This lack of support has far-reaching consequences, with women more likely to take time off work, miss promotions, or suffer financially due to health-related issues. Alarmingly, women report financial consequences because their health needs were not met in the workplace, often leading them to leave the workforce entirely. Shockingly, research by Bupa found that nearly 1 million women in the UK had left their jobs because of their menopause symptoms.

The Impact of Menopause on Work

For many women, menopause presents a particularly challenging time in their professional lives. Symptoms like anxiety, depression, brain fog, and fatigue can make it difficult to perform effectively at work. Sadly, many women do not seek the workplace adjustments they need, often fearing negative reactions from colleagues or employers. As a result, some women feel they have no choice but to leave their jobs.

The Office for National Statistics estimates that 58.4% of the UK’s economically inactive population are women, underscoring the broader economic consequences of not addressing women’s health needs in the workplace. The economic toll of ignoring women’s health in the workplace is estimated at £20.2 billion annually.

New Guidance on Supporting Women Through Menopause

In response to these challenges, the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has issued guidance urging UK employers to support workers experiencing menopause symptoms. Failure to do so could result in legal consequences, as severe menopause symptoms may qualify for protection under disability law. 

While the legal landscape is evolving, what remains clear is that supporting women’s health—whether through menopause or other stages of life—benefits both employees and businesses.

How to create a menopause friendly workplace

For small businesses, integrating women’s health into workplace policies can be a manageable and impactful endeavour. By making small, thoughtful adjustments, businesses can foster a supportive environment that enhances both employee well-being and productivity. Implementing wellness initiatives that address both physical and mental health is a great start.

Creating a stigma-free atmosphere where women feel comfortable discussing their health needs can significantly boost morale and performance. Additionally, regular training for managers and employees on the importance of women’s health is essential. This helps cultivate a more knowledgeable and empathetic workplace, reducing the stigma that often surrounds women’s reproductive health and supporting overall employee satisfaction.

A Strategic Business Imperative

Supporting women’s health in the workplace is not only the right thing to do but also a smart business strategy. When companies prioritise the well-being of their female employees, they benefit from increased productivity, reduced absenteeism, higher job satisfaction, and improved retention.

Given that women make up more than half of the UK workforce, businesses that neglect their specific health needs risk losing out on valuable talent. By fostering a supportive and inclusive environment, companies can unlock their workforce’s full potential, driving both social and economic success.

In today’s competitive landscape, supporting women’s health is essential for long-term sustainability and growth. Investing in women’s well-being is an investment in a thriving business.

Action Steps for Employers Ready to Make a Difference

For small business owners interested in offering menopause-specific support, programmes like Mindful Menopause provide the tools and insights needed to create a calm and positive experience for female employees - benefiting both individuals and the company as a whole.

I am a certified and registered Mindful Menopause Practitioner. With the right tools, you can improve your employees' experience of menopause. The Mindful Menopause Programme I offer provides support, tools, and insights to ensure a calm and positive menopause.

If you are an employer and want to reap these rewards, get in touch to discuss your team’s needs and discover how you can keep the best talent.

Contact Me