Menopause

Menopause statement

Introduction

Lancashire County Council is committed to supporting individuals experiencing symptoms of the menopause including those experiencing perimenopause and andropause. We are dedicated to providing the appropriate support and training for all employees in order to improve the wellbeing of those who experience menopausal symptoms. Whilst not everyone suffers with symptoms, supporting those who do will improve their experience at work.

This statement sets out our approach to supporting employees experiencing menopausal symptoms and to supporting managers to provide the right support to manage menopausal symptoms at work.

Our aim is to ensure individuals experiencing menopausal symptoms feel comfortable in discussing them with colleagues and managers so any workplace adjustments can be explored to support them in work and with carrying out their job roles. Furthermore, it is important everyone understands what the menopause is, feels equipped in having conversations about this topic and is aware of our approach.

Equality

The menopause affects a large number of people, and this can include those who are non-binary, transgender and those with differences in sex development (DSD). Likewise, individuals may experience medically induced menopause at any age. We therefore recognise that for many reasons people’s individual experiences of the menopause may differ greatly, and as such, different levels and types of support and adjustments may be required.

Support

We are committed to supporting employees who are experiencing menopausal symptoms and helping colleagues and managers to understand the topic further. This includes how colleagues can support themselves and where managers can provide support. Our Menopause Guide promotes a greater understanding of the menopause and its symptoms and aims to create an environment in which employees can openly and comfortably hold conversations about the menopause.

We recognise that there are many workplace factors which can make working life more difficult for individuals experiencing the menopause and which may make symptoms worse. Due to the difference in experience of menopausal symptoms, workplace adjustments need to be explored on an individual basis. The guide gives examples of workplace adjustments and a risk assessment to record the adjustments agreed and implemented. This process should be a 2 way discussion, similar to conversations about other long-term health conditions.

If you experience menopausal symptoms, you are encouraged to inform your line manager at an early stage to ensure that adjustments can be explored and implemented. Managers should take a positive and supportive approach to discussions and where necessary signpost you to further support. You can also access support from the Employee Assistance Programme or the Wellbeing Team in People Services by emailing employeesupport@lancashire.gov.uk.

Menopause can be talked about openly in the menopause peer support chat forum, which enables a safe space for discussion between colleagues across the organisation. An annual menopause staff survey allows colleagues to share their thoughts regarding the impact of menopausal symptoms in work and what they find helpful. Regular events are hosted to encourage peer support and to learn more about the effects of menopause and different approaches to managing the impact.

Training for colleagues and managers

Training is available for all employees to increase their awareness of the menopause, the symptoms and the impact it may have and how individuals can be supported. It is recognised that the menopause may indirectly impact others such as partners, families, and colleagues.

We are committed to supporting managers in becoming aware about the impact the menopause may have on employees. A manager specific training session is available to increase knowledge and awareness of symptoms that affect individuals, how this can impact them within work and the support available.

Managing absences

We acknowledge that severe menopause symptoms may impact an individual's overall wellbeing and fitness for work, which may on occasion, lead to absence. Sickness absence due to menopausal symptoms will be treated sympathetically as with other long-term health conditions.

Andropause

We also recognise that individuals may experience symptoms of andropause, which is the term used to describe age-related changes in male hormone levels. Information on this is included within our guidance package available to all employees.