ONE in 10 women in the UK have left work because of symptoms of the menopause – and a top HR & Employment Law company hosted a free webinar to help business leaders provide support for employees dealing with the symptoms of the menopause.
According to the Menopause and The Workplace report conducted by the Fawcett Society, 14 per cent of women between the ages of 45-55 had reduced their hours due to the menopause, and eight per cent had not applied for a promotion because of symptoms.
Derby company BMcPrecept looked at the symptoms of the menopause, the current legal position in England and Wales and how best to support individuals who are dealing with the effects of menopause at work.
Philip Pearson, Associate, led the session. He said: “Sadly there is still something of a stigma around the menopause, particularly in the workplace.
“But with this issue coming to the forefront more and more, with menopausal women being one of the fastest growing demographics in the UK workplace, it’s time for employers to finally get their head around the impact of the menopause, the current legal position in England and Wales and how best to support individuals who are dealing with the effect of menopause at work.”
The event came after ministers in England rejected a proposal from MPs to introduce “menopause leave” pilots, arguing that it could be “counterproductive.”
The Women and Equalities Committee accused ministers of making little progress regarding menopause support following a report which warned that the impact of menopause was causing the UK economy to “haemorrhage talent.”
Rob Tice, managing director of BMcPrecept, believes that as well as supporting those employees going through the menopause – and educating their male colleagues – companies need to find innovative ways to incentivise their staff, with motivating older members of the team key to success.
He said: “Retention of staff is a massive issue for many businesses. Pay is, of course, a huge factor in keeping employees happy but flexible working and other factors are becoming increasingly important.
“Brexit hasn’t helped the jobs market but the huge drop-out of people aged over 50 in the labour market is something that is being addressed. These people are seen as a huge asset to our country with their skills and experience.”
ENDS
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