According to research released just ahead of World Menopause Day (18 October), one in five employers (20%) expect an increased demand for gender-specific support for women, particularly around menopause.
Towergate Employee Benefits, who released the research, is calling for employers to take steps to provide menopause-related support in the workplace.
It is estimated that around six million people in the UK workforce are currently experiencing menopause. Symptoms can range from anxiety and mood swings to insomnia and physical discomfort, all of which can significantly impact both physical and mental wellbeing. Towergate’s research found that employers are beginning to recognise the importance of addressing this issue – and are exploring ways to meet the growing demand for support.
Raising Awareness
A key starting point for employers looking to offer menopause support is education. Raising awareness of menopause symptoms and their potential effects can foster a more understanding and supportive work environment. Education and open discussion can help demystify menopause, and make employees feel supported during this life stage.
Support options for menopause in the workplace are becoming more varied and accessible. A growing number of specialists are now offering targeted services for menopause management, and many mainstream health insurers are including menopause support in their employee benefits packages. Employers are also turning to advisers who provide bespoke solutions to address the needs of menopausal employees.
Debra Clark, head of wellbeing at Towergate Employee Benefitssaid, “I see first-hand the importance of raising awareness of this important issue and providing appropriate support. I’d encourage employers to find out more about the latest developments in menopause support, and to take advice on which options are most appropriate for their organisation.”
Retaining Experienced Employees
As the workforce ages and more women remain in employment later in life, addressing menopause is becoming an increasingly important aspect of talent retention. Providing menopause support in the workplace can deliver tangible benefits for both employees and organisations.
Research suggests that offering such support can boost productivity, reduce absenteeism, and help businesses retain experienced staff who might otherwise feel compelled to leave due to unmanaged symptoms. In short, it can be key to retaining experienced, capable employees.
“The people affected by menopause are often at the pinnacle of their career,” Debra Clark said. They have a wealth of experience and knowledge and are just too valuable to the working world to lose because of the lack of workplace support, so it is vital that businesses provide support for this valuable demographic.”
