Introduction

Schools are committed to providing an inclusive and supportive working environment for everyone who works here and recognises that individuals experiencing the menopause, whether before, during or after this time of hormonal change and associated symptoms, may need additional consideration, support, and adjustments.  

Menopause is a normal part of every woman’s life. This policy recognises that the menopause is an equality; occupational health and safety issue. 

The school is committed to developing a workplace culture that supports workers experiencing the menopause, with dignity and respect, in order for them to feel confident to raise issues about their symptoms and ask for reasonable adjustments at work.

This guidance aims to:

• make Headteachers and Managers aware of their responsibility to be trained and fully understand how the menopause can affect staff, and how they can support those experiencing menopause symptoms at work; ensuring equality in the workplace.
• foster an environment in which colleagues can openly, comfortably and without embarrassment, instigate conversations, or engage in discussions about the menopause in a respectful, supportive and non-discriminatory manner.
• enable workers experiencing menopause symptoms to continue to be effective in their jobs
• outline the support and reasonable adjustments available.
• Recognise that menopause at work is an issue for men as well as women.
• To reduce sickness absence due to menopausal symptoms and retain valued staff in the workplace.