www.workingwiththemenopause.co.uk @menopausecbt

Working with the Menopause is an initiative to normalise the menopausal transition by educating on the symptoms and where help is available. 

We provide support, education and awareness for all employees and duty of care training for managers.

The lack of openness around how these symptoms affect and impact health and wellbeing can lead to a lack of understanding from colleagues, partners, friends and other family members. This contributes to feelings of isolation and disengagement at work.

The society we live in and the culture we have been brought up with influence the menopause experience. This includes the workplace which generally does not cater for gender and sex-specific health other than pregnancy. 

The decline of the sex hormones causes varied experiences and increases health risks influenced not just by the body’s physiological changes (at any age) but also by ethnic and transgender considerations, as well as our cultural attitudes. 

Symptoms of oestrogen decline can also be severe prematurely; after certain treatments for example breast cancer or due to surgical-induced menopause following a hysterectomy. These people need support and understanding at work.  

Working with the Menopause is the collaborative work of Emma Persand and Dr Melanie Smith, a clinical psychologist. Melanie's research with Professor Myra Hunter into cognitive behaviour therapy for menopause symptoms is recognised by the NICE Guidelines as an evidence-based intervention.    

Working with the Menopause aims to normalise the sexual and reproductive wellbeing conversation and support the 25% of employees experiencing a menopause transition through education and signposting towards the correct support.

• Workplace education for all and training for managers, HR and health care professionals.   

• Self-referral for confidential group or individual sessions of cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) for women.