Menopause

Menopause

The University aims to raise awareness of the menopause, its symptoms, and the impact it can have on work and study. We will endeavour to create environments where staff and students feel confident to raise issues about their menopause symptoms and to ask for support. Managers/student support staff will be empowered to provide the appropriate help and advice.

What is the Menopause?

Menopause is when periods stop (for 12 months), and the end of the natural reproductive life is reached. Menopause usually occurs between the ages of 39 and 59 with the average being 51 in the UK, however, it can be earlier due to surgery, illness or other reasons. The symptoms typically last for 4 years but can last up to 12 years.

The changing age of the UK’s workforce means that between 75% and 80% of individuals experiencing menopause are in work. Research shows that staff are unwilling to discuss menopause-related health problems with their line manager, or to ask for the support or adjustments that they may need.

This Toolkit provides guidance for members of staff, students, managers, and those who support them on providing the right support to manage menopausal symptoms at work and University.

Staff and managers may also contact their HR Adviser/Partner for further advice.