Thousands of women in the UK are set to benefit from improved workplace support as the first independent Menopause Advisory Group is launched, led by Menopause Employment Ambassador Mariella Frostrup.
This initiative aims to reduce menopause-related work absences and exits, costing UK businesses £1.5 billion annually, aligning with the government’s Plan for Change.
Understanding the Impact on Women
The launch of the Menopause Advisory Group marks a significant step forward for UK professionals and businesses.
With over half of menopausal women missing work due to symptoms and 10% leaving their jobs permanently, this initiative addresses a critical issue affecting workforce participation and economic productivity.
The advisory group will guide employers in implementing supportive policies that enhance retention and wellbeing.
Supportive Measures for Employers
- Large employers will be required to publish Menopause Action Plans under new legislation.
- The advisory group includes experts from healthcare, business, and law sectors.
- Employers like BT emphasize the link between wellbeing support and productivity.
- The £240 million Get Britain Working initiative complements these efforts.
A Broader Context
This initiative builds on previous efforts such as the UK Menopause Taskforce launched in 2022. It also follows Mariella Frostrup’s appointment as Menopause Employment Ambassador in October 2024.
The Employment Rights Bill currently progressing through Parliament represents a legislative milestone by mandating Menopause Action Plans for large employers, marking a first in UK employment law.
Voices from Industry Leaders
Mariella Frostrup highlights the need for midlife women to be properly supported to prevent forced exits from employment.
Menopause Employment Ambassador, Mariella Frostrup said:
“I’m delighted to have this incredible group of professionals helping me ensure that women in midlife, a time when we often have to balance so much responsibility, are properly supported at work.
Far too many experienced and capable women are forced out of employment through no fault of their own, hurting their earnings and our nation’s economy. Together we can create a more supportive and happier workplace where everyone can succeed.”
Fiona Vines of BT stresses the importance of workplace health support and collaboration between business and government.
Fiona Vines, Director of Inclusion and Wellbeing at BT said:
“We are proud to host the launch of the Government’s Menopause Employment Ambassador’s Advisory Group. At BT Group we understand the importance of supporting women’s health in the workplace.
This event is an important opportunity to bring business leaders together with key government ministers to promote awareness and implement strategies to improve workplace support for women affected by menopause.”
Jon Paull of Octopus Energy calls menopause support a “win-win” for wellbeing and business success.
Additional Reading
Wrapping Up
The establishment of the Menopause Advisory Group signifies progress towards inclusive employment practices in the UK.
By addressing menopause-related challenges, this initiative not only supports women’s health but also enhances economic growth through improved workforce participation.
As these measures take effect, they promise a more equitable workplace environment for all.
Discover more of Todays Top Breaking News Stories!
Sources: UK Government, CIPD, NHS Inform, and Department for Work and Pensions.
Prepared by Ivan Alexander Golden, Founder of THX News™, an independent news organization delivering timely insights from global official sources. Combines AI-analyzed research with human-edited accuracy and context.
