How to empower employees to talk about the menopause
In a study of 2,000 employees by Carrot Fertility, 80% of respondents said menopause presented a challenge at work. Meanwhile, 72% said they felt self-conscious and uncomfortable when experiencing menopause symptoms in the workplace.
There continues to be a stigma around menopause. Colleagues can be nervous about having these conversations with HR leaders and it’s a subject that needs more support from employers on a day-to-day basis.
There should be no concern about negative impacts, no need to suffer in silence. Employees should feel comfortable and supported. A menopause experience doesn’t have to impact career progression in any way.
How employers can do more
It’s important to foster inclusivity and understanding. Having explored challenges faced in the workplace, Zest found that of the benefits their employers offer, just 2% of employees reported that they have used menopause support in the last year, while only 17% of businesses say they offer menopause support.
Zest CEO Matt Russell says: “Menopause is a significant life event that affects women both personally and professionally. But by fostering a supportive and understanding workplace environment that incorporates relevant employee wellbeing benefits, employers can help women navigate this transition with confidence and empower them to continue thriving in their careers.”
Menopause webinar
To celebrate World Menopause Day on Wednesday (18 October), Zest will host a roundtable webinar live on Zoom with industry experts.
The panel will look at:
- How we can all better understand menopause
- Helping HR leaders to create a more supportive work environment
- The benefits and tools available to help foster greater inclusivity
- Getting to grips with the Menstruation, menstrual health and menopause in the workplace standard (BS 30416)
Sign up to Zest’s menopause webinar here.
Supplied by REBA Associate Member, Zest
Zest is the next generation platform that’s reinventing the world of employee benefits.
