'Menopause-friendly' workplace created by home care provider

Home care provider Bluebird Care North Hampshire & West Berkshire has pledged to create a menopause-friendly workplace to help older women reach their full potential at work.

With six in ten menopausal women admitting their symptoms have had a negative impact on their work and 30 per cent saying they are unable to work because of menopause according to CIPD research, the care provider has signed the Employer Menopause Pledge, established by the charity Wellbeing of Women.

Almost 1 million women quit jobs due to symptoms

Almost 1 million women have left their jobs completely because of menopausal symptoms, with most women experiencing the menopause between the age of 45 and 55. Menopausal symptoms can include sleeplessness, memory loss, headaches, depression, and anxiety.

The home care provider’s decision to sign the pledge follows data published by the Office for National Statistics which reveals women over 50+ represent the fastest-growing segment of the UK workforce. Bluebird Care North Hampshire & West Berkshire says the majority of its own workforce are aged 50+.

‘Work culture really needs to change'

Kim Teagle, manager at Bluebird Care North Hampshire & West Berkshire, said: “If the culture existed in workplaces to ensure all women could speak about what they are going through with colleagues and managers, and without fear of being disregarded or treated like they were underperforming in their role, it would make all the difference.

“Along with practical support, work culture really needs to change.”

By signing the ‘Employer Menopause Pledge’, Bluebird Care North Hampshire & West Berkshire has promised to recognising and supporting menopause in the workplace by talking openly, positively and respectfully about menopause, and informing team members about its effects.

The home care provider will also review its employee policies and procedures relating to menopause and train and educate managers and supervisors.

Ms Teagle added: “Businesses need to value the women they have in their workforce who are going through menopause, otherwise many will continue to leave. By fostering an age-inclusive workplace, Bluebird Care North Hampshire & West Berkshire will be able to tap into the valuable skills and talents women of all ages have to offer.”

click here for more details or to contact Bluebird Care North Hampshire & West Berkshire