NHS England estimate that there are around 13 million people who are currently peri or menopausal in the UK which is equivalent to a third of the entire UK female population. This population is reflected in the University of Bath staff, with around 1,010 employees potentially in this phase.
Perimenopause/menopause is a natural stage of life when hormones including oestrogen start to go into freefall triggering a range of physical, psychological and emotional changes that can last for several years.
Whether you are in the workplace or working from home, please don’t suffer in silence. Be open and honest and ask for support. By keeping quiet, menopause can take its toll on relationships, careers and an individual's mental health.
Being aware of the real-life concerns of those going through this transitional time is important not just to those going through it, it is beneficial to all staff and managers. Here you can access information and guidance to enable supportive conversations in the workplace.
Care first is our free ‘in the moment’ service that can offer counselling 24/7 and general advice is available between 8am to 8pm, Monday to Friday. 'Menopause in the workplace' is a free webinar available to all staff on Thursday 2 November at 12pm. To register, login to carefirst-lifestyle.co.uk/, and enter the registration details found on our Care first web page.
The Menopause Matters Support Group run by Staff Wellbeing Champions have regular informal meet ups both face-to-face and virtual. Visit the page for more information and to join in.
Menopause: Misinformation and management is a programme hosted by Louise Minchin, and will be launched on World Menopause Day, 18 October 2023. They will be talking to British Menopause Society medical professionals to dispel menopause misinformation, talking to businesses about best-practice menopause policies and providing information and practical menopause advice.
The Henpicked Menopause Hub offers podcasts, information and resources to answer your menopause questions. They also have a useful article on How to talk to your GP about menopause.
Remember, by keeping quiet, menopause can take its toll on your relationships, your career and your mental health and wellbeing. Visit some of the links on this page to get the support you require.