Menopause in the Workplace

14 March 2024

The Equality and Human Rights Commission has published Menopause in the Workplace: Guidance for employers, to provide them with a better understanding of their legal obligations under the Equality Act 2010 in relation to supporting workers experiencing menopausal symptoms.

The guidance briefly outlines what is meant by menopause and perimenopause, the impact it can have on work and the the employer's obligations. Furthermore, they have included three short but useful videos which cover the following:

• The possible protections workers going through the menopause  may have and the legal obligations employers have in line with the Equality Act 2010.
• Making reasonable adjustments, examples of adjustments that can be made and the risk of failing to make adjustments.
• Creating a culture where discussing menopause is encouraged throughout the organisation where workers are able to talk about they symptoms and ask for any necessary support.

In addition there are video based case studies from the University of Greenwich, a menopause-friendly workplace.

Whether workers are protected under the Equality Act 2010 or not, it is important to create an environment where they feel able to talk about their symptoms and ask for any necessary support.