For World Menopause Day this year I spoke with my colleague, Jane, who was instrumental in creating a menopause support group and menopause awareness sessions. I didn't know the story behind the group and the sessions being created. I want to share this today - menopause awareness day - to show how two people having a conversation can lead to big things. The awareness session Jane talks about was attended by 40+ women and men here at Anthony Collins Solicitors.

Here it is in Jane's words.

"I wasn’t sure if it was a good idea, but I decided to be brave and say the 'menopause' word in my meeting with my line manager, Phil. I’d been struggling with motivation, confidence and concentration, as well as the physical symptoms of hot flushes, etc. Another reason why I wanted to talk menopause was because I’d come to the realisation that it was more than likely that many of my past and current colleagues had been experiencing the same, but, for one reason or another, hadn’t felt able to speak about it. I would have liked to have been aware of what they were going through and better equipped to support them. Sadly, menopause was never talked about, or the potentially debilitating symptoms that might affect every element of life, and particularly work.

Phil was very supportive and listened closely, not at all embarrassed to hear me out.  

Following our conversation, we held our first Menopause Awareness Session at ACS, inviting colleagues to learn more about the menopause, hearing and sharing experiences. I shared my own menopause story and, from feedback received, I’m so glad I did – people were so grateful to open up the conversation and to begin to break the menopause taboo. I hope that my colleagues now feel they have permission and support to talk menopause with their line managers and be more open about what they’re going through.  

We also have a Menopause Support Group and meet regularly to chat and support anyone who needs it. There’s still lots to do as we continue to keep menopause on the agenda."

The theme for World Menopause Day this year is cognition and mood. As Jane says in her story, she noticed her concentration was affected. Sometimes people describe 'brain fog'. There are things employers can do to support their people. As Jane shows, women can thrive and excel in their careers, regardless of the menopause.

For really practical advice for employers, ACAS have good resources on their website https://www.acas.org.uk/menopause-at-work/supporting-staff-through-the-menopause.