MPs call for workplace action on menopause

摘要

A committee of MPs has found "much that employers can and should do to help" employees who are undergoing menopause. "Many of the solutions," adds the House of Commons Women and Equalities Committee1, involve practical adjustments, additional flexibility, education, training, respect, understanding and "making it clear that menopause is seen as a health issue". The MPs conclude that the law "does not serve or protect menopausal women. There is poor employer awareness of both health and safety and equality law relating to menopause. More fundamentally, the law does not offer proper redress to those who suffer menopause related discrimination." The benefits of retaining women who have menopausal symptoms include financial gains, retention of valued staff, an enhanced skill base, an inclusive and supportive culture, and profitability. Conversely, "employers who fail to support their menopausal employees, or act punitively towards them, leave themselves vulnerable to discrimination claims."