We’re backing World Menopause Day

More than 70 women from across our firm will be sharing their experiences and advice to raise awareness of the symptoms and impact of the menopause.

The informal support session is being organised as part of World Menopause Day on Monday, October 18, when managers will also be taking part in training to learn more about how to support colleagues going through the menopause.

It comes after PKF Francis Clark signed the Menopause Workplace Pledge, championed by Wellbeing of Women, which commits employers to:

• Recognising that the menopause can be an issue in the workplace and women need support
• Talking openly, positively and respectfully about the menopause
• Actively supporting and informing employees affected by the menopause

Almost 900,000 women in the UK have quit their jobs due to the menopause, and six in 10 of those experiencing menopausal symptoms report that it has a negative impact on their work. But with the right support there is no need for women to press pause on their career.

People director Amy Taylor said: “It’s something that every woman goes through, but there’s surprisingly little awareness of the symptoms and impact the menopause can have. Fortunately, that’s starting to change thanks to initiatives like World Menopause Day and high-profile women including Michelle Obama, Angelina Jolie and Davina McCall joining the conversation.

“It’s important that we all understand how we can support our colleagues who are going through the menopause. It can be a struggle, with physical and emotional challenges, but a few small practical adjustments at work can make a world of difference.”

Amy added: “We realised there was a demand for this sort of information and advice after Melody Tuffnell, one of our regional people managers, hosted some well-received webinars during our firmwide wellbeing weeks last year.

“World Menopause Day is an ideal opportunity to do our bit to help normalise conversations around the menopause, like we have with mental health. We’ve been really pleased by the response, with more than 70 colleagues across the firm signing up so far.”

More information about the Menopause Workplace Pledge can be found at wellbeingofwomen.org.uk/campaigns/menopausepledge.