As many as two-thirds (66%) of perimenopausal, menopausal and postmenopausal working adults believe there is still a taboo surrounding menopause.
Over two-fifths (43%) say that it has or could present a barrier in the workplace, according to new research carried out by KPMG UK.
Despite three-quarters (74%) of adults saying they are aware of menopause being more openly discussed in recent years, only two-fifths (38%) say their own employer is helping to raise awareness.
Only a fifth (18%) of those surveyed say they felt supported by their own employer when they developed symptoms.
In fact, nearly half (48%) say their employer do not have a menopause policy in place, while two-fifths (39%) are unsure.
What support measures are commonly in place?
Among the most popular support measures, respondents want their employers to implement are adjustments to working patterns (38%) and working environments (34%), as well as more open conversations in the workplace and better education on the issue for managers (33% respectively).
Commenting on the findings, Rachel Hopcroft, Partner and Head of Corporate Affairs at KPMG in the UK, said:
“Just over half of the UK population will go through menopause at some point in their life, yet it is still a topic that is seen as taboo – especially in the workplace. Our research findings reinforce the need to get over any discomfort and normalise the issue, especially if we want to make diverse and inclusive workplaces a reality for all.”
To mark World Menopause Day on Tuesday 18 October, KPMG UK is encouraging its own colleagues to talk openly about menopause. A series of internal events are taking place throughout the week, helping to address the taboo and signpost colleagues to support available at the firm.
The firm has bolstered its own support measures with the launch of its menopause policy. In addition to its existing medical support and counselling, occupational health, desk fans, free period products and flexible working arrangements, the firm will also be offering all colleagues access to a menopause trained GP and personalised care plan, as well as 24/7 access to a menopause trained nurse.
KPMG UK will also be running knowledge sessions on menopause for its managers, ensuring they have the tools needed to support colleagues in the workplace during a menopause transition.
Rachel Hopcroft, added:
“Talking openly about the menopause and having the right support available is a key part of our firm’s commitment to building the most inclusive workforce possible. Doing so empowers our colleagues to ask for the support they need, so they can thrive at our firm.”
Amelia Brand is the Editor for HRreview, and host of the HR in Review podcast series. With a Master’s degree in Legal and Political Theory, her particular interests within HR include employment law, DE&I, and wellbeing within the workplace. Prior to working with HRreview, Amelia was Sub-Editor of a magazine, and Editor of the Environmental Justice Project at University College London, writing and overseeing articles into UCL’s weekly newsletter. Her previous academic work has focused on philosophy, politics and law, with a special focus on how artificial intelligence will feature in the future.
