A study by YouGov which was commissioned by law firm Irwin Mitchell, revealed that only 13% of organisations with a high representation of women in their workforce, have a menopausal policy.
The study canvassed 1,025 HR decision makers from British businesses about the menopause, an issue which affects the fastest-growing demographic in the UK - women aged 50 to 64 years old - but additionally women before this age. The study showed that whilst the media have recently played a role in raising awareness of the menopause - such as highlighting World Menopause Day on 18th October - and it’s impact on women’s health at work, there is still a lack of support for employers to enable them to offer practical support for their employees.
Symptoms of the menopause can include fatigue, anxiety, brain fog and sleeplessness, all of which can have a significant impact on a woman’s physical and psychological health. Fifty nine percent of sufferers have taken time off as a result of their symptoms, with 18% taking more than eight weeks off. Despite this, 73% of menopausal women don't feel able to discuss their symptoms at work and more than one million women have felt pressured into quitting their jobs.
Commenting on Irwin Mitchell’s research, Dr Louise Newson a renowned GP and menopause specialist said:
“I am saddened yet unsurprised by the findings of this survey. The themes that highlight the challenges and inequalities perimenopausal and menopausal women face at work continuously reoccur in research and I have found similar findings through my own.”
An additional survey, also carried out by YouGov but on behalf of the British Nutrition Foundation, found that managing the symptoms of the menopause has become even more challenging due to the financial and emotional impact of the cost-of-living crisis. The survey revealed that 32% of women who are going through or have been through the menopause have tried hormone replacement therapy (HRT), however 1 in 10 women are now unable or less able to afford the cost of their prescriptions. This has led to 37% feeling more stressed about their finances and feeling that this has heightened their menopausal symptoms and 16% are now working extra hours or shifts to earn more to be able to afford the things they need.
However, with up to 40% of employees considering a job move in 2022 because they don’t feel valued and properly rewarded, businesses need to do more to attract and retain the talent they have.
Jenny Arrowsmith, Partner at Irwin Mitchell advised:
“The level of support that women receive at this stage of their working life will help to retain experienced and valuable skills or talent and remove barriers to progression. Demonstrating that your organisation is a supportive and inclusive place to work will help you attract new candidates.”
