New EHRC guidance on Menopause in the workplace

The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) publishes new guidance, to help employers understand their legal obligations to individuals experiencing the menopause in the workplace.

On 22 February 2024, the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) published new guidance to assist employers in understanding their legal obligations and how to support individuals experiencing menopause in the workplace.??

The Fawcett Society Research

The guidance refers to 2022 research by the Fawcett Society which notably found that?

• One in ten individuals surveyed who have worked during the menopause have left a job due to their symptoms; and?
• Eight out of ten women say their employer hasn’t shared information, trained staff, or put in place a menopause policy.?

The significance of menopause in the workplace

In light of the research showing the significance and impact of menopause in the workplace, whilst the new EHRC guidance does not create any new legal responsibilities, it includes a number of useful short videos setting out helpful and practical guidance on:

• The legal risks employers face if they do not support workers or prevent discrimination relation to the menopause;?
• Examples of steps an employer can take to support individuals experiencing menopause symptoms in the work place; and?
• How to have conversations about the menopause at work.

So what can you do???

The guidance is a useful reminder and starting point that having a supportive and menopause friendly workplace can help you attract and retain the best talent.

Training staff on the menopause, putting measures into place and engaging with your employees will all help to demonstrate your commitment to employees experiencing the menopause, foster a greater understanding of the menopause as well as reducing your risk of expensive tribunal claims.

Watch our webinar

Take a look at our webinar in which we discuss further what can businesses do to support those going through the menopause and how to mitigate your legal risks.