Campaign win: Labour commits to Menopause Action Plans for large employers

28th February 2023

Last year, Fawcett published the largest representative survey of menopausal women in the UK, delving into their experiences at work.

Today, Labour have taken up our call and are committing to requiring all large employers (those with more than 250 employees) to write, publish and submit menopause action plans alongside their gender pay gap reporting each year. 

Menopause and the Workplace, sponsored by construction firm Wates Group, was a landmark piece of research that showed, among a number of key findings, that one in ten women who worked during the menopause have left a job due to their symptoms. 

Menopause action plans are simple documents that outline the evidence-based steps an employer is taking to support those experiencing menopause in their workplace. This might include training, information sharing and leadership, networks and solidarity, flexible work, absence policies and adjusted dress codes. 

Jemima Olchawski, CEO of Fawcett, has said:

For too long the menopause has been shrouded in taboo – meaning women’s experiences have been ignored. Fawcett research has shown the real world effects of the taboo, with far too many women forced out of the workforce due to symptoms. That’s not only bad for women, but bad for business. Today’s announcement is a significant step forwards, as it recognises that there are simple, yet highly effective actions, that employers can take to support women going through the menopause.

This is a big win, but there's more to be done. 

Requiring employers to introduce menopause action plans is just one of Fawcett's urgent calls to government, the others being: 

  • Make flexible work the default 
  • Implement a public information campaign and invite every woman in to speak with her GP about menopause at an appropriate age 
  • Ensure GPs receive mandatory training to help diagnose menopause earlier 

Get involved 

Manage Cookie Preferences