October is World Menopause month. Menopausal women are the fastest growing workforce in the UK (source: Office of National Statistics). With almost 4 million working women over the age of 50, it is beneficial for the employer to understand the condition and effects that it will have within the workplace.
What is menopause?
Menopause is part of the female aging process when a woman’s menstrual cycle ceases. It could last for months or even years. It is more common at the age of 45 plus. Symptom of menopause includes hot flushes, tiredness, night sweats and low mood. It could be one or a combination. Menopause can also contribute to high levels of absenteeism. Currently menopause absence costs UK businesses millions each year, however research show that this could be avoided provided employers put supportive mechanisms in place.
Menopause is covered under the Equality Act 2010 as part of disability, gender and age. It is also covered under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974; the employer must provide satisfactory working conditions and it must be practicable. There is no ‘one size fits all’ when a female colleague confirms she is going through the menopause as women experience different symptoms. Employers must review each case separately and to make the relevant adjustment.
Should the employer not comply with the request correctly, the employee has the right to raise a grievance or worst still, make an employment tribunal claim under the Equality Act 2010 on the basis of sex discrimination.
In the case of Merchant v BT plc, Ms Merchant was dismissed for poor performance despite providing a letter from the GP citing that she was going through the menopause which had affected her concentration. Ms Merchant made a claim at employment tribunal and won on the grounds of sex discrimination and unfair dismissal.
What can you do to be a supportive employer? Examples 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 – reasonable adjustments such as desk top fans and cool water at hand
- offer access to counselling services
The article is for general information purposes only and should you require any further assistance on the matter please do not hesitate to call our advice-line team on 01455 852028.
