Business executives from across the UK came to discuss support for menopausal women and how to prevent them from leaving the workforce due to their symptoms.
The discussion, hosted by Mims Davies MP, Minister for Social Mobility, Youth, and Progression, was place at London Stadium, home of West Ham United, the first Premier League team to get Menopause Friendly Accreditation.
As many as one in every four menopausal women consider quitting their jobs due to their symptoms, and women over 50 are the fastest expanding component of the labor force.
The conversation focused on best practices for assisting women to stay and succeed at work throughout menopause, as well as assisting those who have left the field to return to work. On this agenda, there was a particular emphasis on how organizations and individuals can help their employees and colleagues.
Jackie Ferdinand, West Ham United’s Director of Inclusion, spoke about the club’s efforts to secure the accreditation, which included implementing workplace adaptations for menopausal women and giving training for all employees.
“The business case for menopause-friendly products is unarguable.” The roundtable provided an excellent opportunity to interact with government representatives, small and large businesses, and individuals to exchange policy ideas and best practices.
“Welcoming the event is a continuation of West Ham’s heritage of removing barriers to ensure wellbeing, enjoyment, and fairness.”
“The gathering inspired and equipped each attendee to put in place a menopause strategy to ensure that those experiencing and impacted by the menopause have a genuine opportunity to perform and flourish in the workplace.”
“Today was a fantastic opportunity to progress this area of work, and on behalf of the Club, I would like to thank everyone who attended and contributed to this important area of work.”
“The impact of the Menopause is a major driver of too many women leaving the workforce early, often when they are at the peak of their skills and experience with so much more to contribute,” said Mims Davies MP, Minister for Social Mobility, Youth, and Progression.
“When it comes to menopause policy, West Ham United truly are trailblazers and are a great example to sports clubs and businesses – large and small – on how to make changes that will benefit women now and in the future.”
“I’m excited to continue working positively with employers and sectors to ensure they can recruit and retain women experiencing menopause impact, as well as help prevent them from leaving work too soon, by providing them with the opportunities and support they need to thrive at any age and career stage.”
Helen Tomlinson was named the first Menopause Employment Champion for England earlier this year by the government. Helen’s volunteer role will include urging employers to implement menopausal policies in order to provide more friendly conditions for women experiencing menopause to stay and advance in their careers.
“Menopause is an entirely natural but sometimes difficult period that affects 51% of the population, but this is not a time to step down, step back, or step out of working life,” said Helen Tomlinson, Menopause Employment Champion.
“Women over 50 are the fastest growing demographic in the workplace, and when employers provide education and allyship that results in cultural change, those women can have arguably the most productive and fulfilling time in their careers.”
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