Menopause Policy

PURPOSE

 

Wilson Vale is committed to ensuring the health, safety and wellbeing of its employees and ensuring everyone is treated with dignity and respect. The menopause is a natural process and for many can be positively managed through lifestyle adjustments. However, we recognise that the menopause is not always an easy transition, and some employees may need additional considerations to support and improve their experience at work.

 

We are committed to supporting employees who are affected in any way by the menopause and to support and inform managers so that employees reporting issues are treated fairly and given appropriate support.

 

This policy does not form part of an employee’s contract of employment and Wilson Vale Catering may amend this policy at any time.

 

INTRODUCTION

 

Menopause is when your periods stop due to lower hormone levels. It usually happens between the ages of 45 and 55, although it can sometimes happen earlier. Menopause can have a big impact on your life and work for several years.

 

EFFECTS OF MENOPAUSE

 

Physical symptoms of the menopause can include the following:

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• hot flushes

• insomnia

• fatigue

• poor concentration

• headaches

• skin irritation

• urinary problems

 

As a result of the above, or as an extension of the hormone imbalance, individuals going through the menopause can also experience psychological difficulties, including:

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• depression

• anxiety

• panic attacks

• mood swings

• irritability

• problems with memory

• loss of confidence

 

It is also commonly acknowledged that Hormone Replacement Therapy, medication which is often prescribed for menopause, can have side effects which cause problems at work. These include nausea, headaches and leg cramps.

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COMMUNICATION

 

We aim to normalise conversations about menopause in the workplace and remove any stigma. Menopause should not be a taboo subject. We encourage employees to have discussions about the menopause and be supportive of each other.

 

It is important that, as an employee, you prioritise your personal health and wellbeing. If you are struggling with any aspect of your role because of symptoms associated with the menopause, you should tell your manager, who will treat the matter with complete confidence. So that we can give you the best support possible we encourage you to be open and honest in these conversations.

 

Alternatively, your manager may talk to you if they notice a change in your behaviour or performance.

 

We understand that you may feel uncomfortable discussing personal information with your manager. If this is the case, we encourage you to talk to another senior manager, the HR Department, Mental Health First Aider or you could contact our confidential Employee Assistance program (EAP) on 0808 802 2111.

 

During any discussions, your manager will consider your individual situation and evaluate if any adjustments can be made. Your individual needs will be addressed sensitively, and confidentiality will be maintained. 

 

Managers will also arrange follow up sessions to review the effectiveness of any adjustments put in place.

 

MAKING ADJUSTMENTS TO YOUR ROLE

 

To help you in your daily duties, your manager will explore making adjustments to your role or working environment with the aim of reducing the effect that the menopause is having on you. We acknowledge that the menopause affects each individual in different ways so no adjustment will be made without fully discussing it with you first.

 

Examples of adjustments may include: 

 

• allowing changes to our normal rules on work wear

• implementing further temperature control, such as access to a fan

• assessing how work is allocated and whether you are affected at particular points of the day

• allowing additional rest breaks

• providing sanitary products in toilet and shower facilities

• changing start and finish times

• considering flexible working hours

 

Once the adjustments are agreed, they will be reviewed on an ongoing basis to ensure they are having the required effect.

 

You may also be entitled to make a flexible working request. Please read our flexible working policy if you would like more details.

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IF YOU ARE UNWELL DUE TO MENOPAUSAL SYMPTONS

 

You are not expected to come to work if you are unwell because of menopausal symptoms. If you are unwell you should tell (insert point of contact i.e. your manager) and follow our usual sickness reporting procedure.

 

BEHAVIOUR OF OTHERS

 

There is an expectation on all employees to conduct themselves in a helpful and open-minded manner towards colleagues.

 

We maintain a zero-tolerance approach to bullying and harassment and will treat any and all complaints seriously. If you feel that you have been mistreated in any way by a colleague because of matters related to the menopause, please contact the HR Department: HR@wilsonvale.co.uk

 

OTHER SUPPORT

 

Our employees have access to a confidential independent counselling telephone service who can provide advice and guidance for employees who would like support during the menopause.

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Freephone: 0808 802 2111

UK SMS and WhatsApp:

Text ‘Hi’ to +44 77 0018 5861

 

Other external sources of help for those experiencing menopause include Menopause Matters or Menopause Cafe.