On 22 February 2024, the Equality and Human Rights Commission published Guidance: Menopause and the workplace, which is designed to help employers understand their legal obligations under the Equality Act 2010 in relation to supporting women experiencing menopausal symptoms while in employment (EHRC News Story).
The EHRC considers menopausal symptoms that have a long-term and substantial impact on a woman's ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities may amount to a disability under s 6(1) EA 2010. In those circumstances, employers will be under a duty to make reasonable adjustments (see Disability, Q&A here). Women experiencing menopause symptoms may also be protected from less favourable treatment on the grounds of age and sex (see Q&A here), as well as from harassment and victimisation (see Q&A here and Q&A here).
The guidance includes videos that explain employers' legal obligations and provide practical examples of workplace adjustments and other changes that employers can make to support their workers and prevent discrimination. It also discusses key ways employers can foster positive conversations about the menopause and encourage a culture where women feel able to talk about their symptoms and ask for adjustments to their work. The EHRC encourages employers to carefully consider the guidance and adapt their policies and practices as required to ensure fairness and inclusivity in the workplace.
The British Standards Institution has also published guidance to help employers support workers in relation to menstrual and menopausal health (see FC Feature 2 June 2023). In October 2023, the DWP published a policy paper detailing plans to develop appropriate employer guidance and resources to support staff experiencing menopause (see FC Feature 19 October 2023).
First published on the Employment News Service on 22 February 2024.
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