LATEST Encouraging conversations about the menopause in our workplace

Group News

Encouraging conversations about the menopause in our workplace

3 MIN READ

A conference room full of people watching a presentation.

The menopause is a natural part of every woman’s life, and it can be a difficult and challenging transition. Whilst not every woman suffers with symptoms, supporting those who do can greatly improve their working experience. We know that if our people are thriving both inside and outside work, our business can thrive.

Back in 2021 we set out to establish a solid system from which to support individuals manage menopausal symptoms in the workplace and to encourage open and transparent conversations without embarrassment or misunderstanding. We launched our Menopause Policy in July 2021 and then used World Menopause Day (October 18th) as a springboard to start building support for our colleagues kicking off with ‘Menopause Demystified’ sessions led by Dr Katie Day, a leading voice and expert on the menopause.

From the original sessions, we had a positive response from our people, and from those our Wellbeing Hub facilitated a support network of colleagues which has grown organically into a series of Menopause Cafés which run regularly across our sites. These networks have led to further opportunities for wellbeing initiatives, such as providing free period products and a uniform review.

We’re also committed to ongoing learning and training for our people across the business, so we’ve held virtual awareness sessions with external partners and experts, as well as in person workshops and Q&A drop ins, including sessions for people leaders, with a focus on what the menopause entails and how best to support others through it.

Three women standing in front of a TV screen showing a Powerpoint presentation.

Our intranet offers simple and easy access to a wealth of resources and tools for people to access via a dedicated Menopause section of the Wellbeing Hub. The support networks have seen sustained positive engagement across the business and it’s encouraging to see that people have been open in sharing their experiences with colleagues. We’ve also received feedback from female colleagues who say they feel better supported at work with menopausal symptoms.

Our focus throughout this work has been to promote more open conversations and engagement around all facets of the menopause, which helps those affected feel supported and helps to normalise the conversation. By raising awareness and understanding at all levels across the business, we can help to enable our colleagues to be better equipped to deal with some of the challenges the menopause can bring and help support them to navigate these.   

Chris Worts, Central Services HR Director, summarises our approach:

"

At Bettys & Taylors we continue to make positive strides towards creating a better environment for our female colleagues to support them through the significant challenges that menopause brings. One of our greatest achievements has been the establishment of menopause cafes across the Group which have provided a safe space for colleagues to share experiences and access support. 

"
"

At the end of 2023, we were delighted to welcome Helen Tomlinson, the Government’s first menopause employment champion to Bettys & Taylors to host information sessions with team leaders and managers, as well as members of our leadership teams from across the Group, including practical tips, and support for managers. We believe we’ve made good progress in the last two years but we recognise we have more work to do.

"

The business is also now a member of The Menopause Friendly Accreditation UK and will be drawing on their expert advice and resources to inform the next phase of menopause engagement within the business.