A new report has revealed troubling statistics about the impact of menopause on women in the workplace. Based on a survey of 1,000 women, the report highlights significant and overlooked challenges faced by menopausal employees, calling for urgent action from businesses to address this pressing issue.
Titled ‘Menopause in the workplace: Breaking the silence,’ the report from HR consultancy hoomph (formerly e-volve HR) examines the effects of menopause on women’s professional lives, revealing that insufficient workplace support can drive some to consider leaving their positions.
In addition, more than one in ten women (15%) have thought about quitting due to menopausal symptoms, particularly in high-stress sectors like technology and healthcare. Plus, a significant 70% of women feel unsupported by their employers during this critical transition, emphasising the urgent need for improved resources and support systems in the workplace.
It also uncovers several critical themes, including the impact of menopause on daily working life, its emotional and mental health impact, and the widespread lack of education for women entering this stage of life. Key findings from the report include:
- Over half (53%) of women said menopause impacts their daily working life, with the figure rising to 70% among women aged 45-54.
- The majority (70%) of women feel unsupported by their employers during menopause.
- 15% of women have considered quitting their jobs because of menopausal symptoms, with 21% of those aged 45-54 contemplating leaving their roles.
- 69% of working and retired women wish they’d been more informed about menopause before experiencing it.
Despite increased awareness, workplace policies lag behind. While high-profile advocates like presenter Davina McCall have raised public discourse, formal workplace policies remain slow to follow. Proposed Labour Party legislation for a menopause action plan in larger companies is promising, but smaller businesses lack clear guidance.
The report calls for businesses of all sizes to adopt menopause-friendly policies, encouraging employers to proactively support employees through this natural life stage.
Commissioned by Censuswide, the report serves as a wake-up call for businesses to implement inclusive policies that address the needs of menopausal employees, creating a more supportive and equitable workplace for all.
World Menopause Day takes place on October 18th. Find out more here.
