Menopause is the time of life after a woman's, trans or non-binary person's last period, leaving a hormone deficiency. The years leading up to that point are called the menopausal transition or perimenopause. During this phase, many have changes in their monthly cycles, hot flushes, brain fog or other symptoms.
The experience is different for everyone: some have no signs of change, others have debilitating symptoms that affect work, relationships, day-to-day life and health. There is treatment available and everybody who chooses to, should have access to it.
It can be a tricky time to deal with both physically and emotionally. Whatever you’re feeling, you're not alone.
The menopause is not a specific protected characteristic under the Equality Act 2010. But if an employee or worker is put at a disadvantage and treated less favourably because of their menopause symptoms, this could be discrimination if related to a protected characteristic.
Equality and Human Rights commission
Balance
Balance is a resource with lots of information, guides and tips for managing the symptoms of menopause, both physically and mentally. In their own words "we are on a mission to make support with the menopause inclusive and accessible to all women, and trans and non-binary people."
Balance also has an app so you can access the guides and track your symptoms wherever you feel most comfortable.
Articles
How does menopause affect women at work? |
Creating and working in a menopause confident organisation |
Menopause policy and guidance example |
| Dr Louise Newson, Balance
This video answers questions on how menopause can affect mental health and productivity in the workplace. |
Balance
This guide contains lots of information for managers about how they can make their businesses more supportive of team members going through menopause symptoms. |
Balance
This an example of a policy a business could introduce to show they are 'menopause confident' and have the tools in place to support people going through menopause. |
All resources have been recommended by AEO. AEV and ESSA members. If you have a suggestion for additional DEI resources please let us know. Submit a resource
