For those experiencing symptoms it can be a difficult and stressful time. Everyone will experience the menopause differently and for some, symptoms can be quite severe and can affect people both physically and mentally.
For employers, it is important to ensure your policies and training procedures are relevant and up-to-date.
This could include:
- Developing a menopause policy that explains how the menopause can affect people differently and what support is available;
- Providing awareness training for managers including how to deal with the subject sensitively and fairly; and
- Considering making practical changes at work to help staff manage their symptoms such as the availability of cold drinking water and temperature control.
On Monday 2 October 2023, a Leicester Employment Tribunal has been hearing a case where a woman is claiming her employer discriminated against her when she experienced menopause symptoms. It is the first case involving an Employment Tribunal where menopause symptoms have been deemed to amount to a disability for the purpose of the Equality Act.
If you feel you have been discriminated against by your employer on the grounds of disability and sex, please contact Lisa, our employment expert to discuss your situation.
T: 01926 491181 M: 07960 469988
E: LisaA@moore-tibbits.co.uk