Intersoft is proud to announce its new Menopause policy, highlighting the importance of supporting and understanding menopause in the workplace.

The policy, which comes during Menopause Awareness Month in October 2024, and ahead of World Menopause Awareness Day on the 18^th of October, aims to ensure that those experiencing Menopause are treated with respect and consideration throughout the organisation.

Starting Conversation

75-80% of women who go through menopause are still active in the workplace during the experience. For this reason, it is important that it is not treated as a taboo subject, and women should feel comfortable openly discussing concerns and personal circumstances with colleagues and managers.

Menopause is a natural period of life, and whilst not all experience symptoms, it can be a stressful time for anyone going through the event. Offering information and compassion during this time can vastly affect women’s workplace experience.

Whilst a policy on menopause is not a requirement, as a Great Place to Work for Wellbeing and one of the UK’s Best Workplaces Women, Intersoft places its responsibility towards inclusivity at the heart of its company culture. Its new menopause policy is designed to reinforce this, bringing menopause to the forefront of discussions.

The aims of the policy

• Fostering a work environment where colleagues feel comfortable and able to initiate conversations about menopause.
• Ensuring that everyone has a clear understanding of menopause, and can engage in
• meaningful discussions and receive support where necessary.
• Educating and informing managers about the potential symptoms of menopause, their impact, and how they can support employees in the workplace.
• Ensuring that employees experiencing menopause symptoms feel confident to discuss their needs and request any reasonable adjustments, so they can continue to succeed in their roles.
• Reassuring all employees that Intersoft is a responsible employer committed to supporting their needs throughout menopause.

By introducing this policy, Intersoft hopes to address any stigma or bias surrounding menopause and give all employees a guide on how to approach the subject, both for those struggling with menopausal symptoms and those wishing to support them.

Information is Understanding

As part of ongoing learning, Intersoft held its first lunch and learn webinar on menopause on Wednesday the 16^th of October, hosted by Dr Laila Kaikavoosi from the Online Menopause Centre. The talk focused on sharing information on the symptoms and impacts of menopause, and helpful resources for those in attendance.

You can find more details about support and guidance during menopause at the links below:

• NHS Guidance on Menopause
• British Menopause Society
• Daisy Network
• Henpicked, Menopause in the Workplace
• Newson Health Menopause

To view the full Intersoft Menopause Policy, download the information here.