Employers can take certain steps to accommodate employees with symptoms of menopause such as:

• Increasing awareness of the menopause and its symptoms for both men and women in the workplace. Conducting training, particularly for managers, would be beneficial so that they can be alert to potential symptoms, particularly when dealing with performance and absence issues, and be able to handle and support menopausal employees with sensitivity.
• Creating an open, supportive and comfortable environment where employees feel safe to speak about their symptoms without embarrassment or ridicule. This can be helped by implementing a menopause policy, inviting an external speaker in to speak about menopause, or even forming internal support groups. GlaxoSmithKline is one of several companies that have established a menopause support group.
• Ensuring that the workplace is properly ventilated and that there is appropriate access to fans and bathrooms.
• Considering allowing individuals to work flexibly when necessary.
• Reviewing sickness policies to ensure that they are fair and accommodate employees who are experiencing menopausal symptoms.
• Offering appropriate reasonable adjustments and support where necessary, bearing in mind that people experience menopause differently. This could include improving temperature control, providing a desk fan, and allowing employees to work from home when suffering from particularly bad symptoms.
• For the more innovative organisations, investing in technology that is specifically tailored towards people suffering from the menopause transition could reap benefits.

For more information contact Irina Polyakova on 01484 821 300 or at irinapolyakova@eatonsmith.co.uk