The topic of menopause has become more apparent within the work place today. With more than 3.8 million working women over the age of 50, it is beneficial for the employer to understand the condition as well as the effects that it may have within the workplace.
What is menopause?
Menopause is part of the female aging process when a woman stops having periods. The process could last for months or, as is more common, years. It affects more women at the age of 45 plus; however, can affect women at any age. Symptoms of menopause includes hot flushes, tiredness, night sweats and low mood and is usually a combination of these symptoms. The effects of this condition may lead to high levels of absences. Currently menopause costs UK businesses millions each year, however research show that this could be avoided provided employers put supportive mechanisms in place.
It is useful to know menopause is covered under the Equality Act 2010 as part of disability, gender and age. However, as all women experience different symptoms; this would only apply in extreme cases. Recent case law, Davies vs Scottish Courts and Tribunal Service SCTS (2018), argues how a menopausal employee had been discriminated against because of her condition and was dismissed. The Judge ruled that she had been treated unfairly and was awarded £19,000 to compensate and to be reinstated. The employer here clearly failed to be supportive and make reasonable adjustments to help her.
Business Support
What can you do to be a supportive employer and to reduce the cost of absence within the workplace? Examples of best practices include:
- create a ‘menopause’ policy to encourage women to talk about it
- offer flexible working which can help with the night sweats or tiredness
- allow working from home when experiencing embarrassing symptoms
- make changes to the work environment – adjustments to the heating systems, cool water at hand
- offer access to counselling services
Without the support of the employer, the company may lose valuable talent and much of the work will be left uncomplete/delayed. Therefore, it is worth making reasonable adjustments.
For more information on this or any HR matters please contact Quest or call 01455 852028
