People & Organisational Development

Menopause and Hormonal Changes Symptoms Support

Symptoms can manifest both physically and psychologically. While this may vary and depend on each individual’s unique experiences of menstruation and hormonal changes, examples of support for colleagues are detailed below and should be considered in the context of the colleague’s role.  In most cases, a collaborative approach should be taken with colleagues and managers working together to find solutions.  

Hot Flushes

• Request temperature control for work area, such as a fan on desk (where possible a USB connected desk fan to ensure environmentally friendly), mobile fan if job involves moving to different locations. This may also require considering closeness to windows, or away from a heat source.
• Easy access to drinking water – check for local sustainable choices, such as tap water on majority of Gilmorehill campus.
• Discuss possible adaptation to uniforms if possible, such as by removing a jacket.
• Have access to a rest room for breaks if work involves long periods of standing or sitting, or a quiet area if needed.

Heavy/light Periods

• Ensure access to nearest washroom facilities and consider whether that these are practical in terms of closeness to workspace.
• Provide extra uniforms, where appropriate.
• Arrange storage space is available for a change of clothing.

Headaches

• Have ease of access to fresh drinking water.
• Consider whether there are quiet spaces to work nearby if based on campus and role permits this.
• Have time out to take medication if needed.

Difficulty Sleeping

• Consider options for flexible working, where appropriate.

Low Mood

• Where possible, identify and provide quiet spaces that give the opportunity to take some time or gather their thoughts.
• Signpost the University’s Employee Assistance Programme.

Loss of Confidence

• Ensure there are regular and positive Personal Development Discussions.
• Have regular protected time with their manager to discuss any concerns or ways to support.
• Have agreed protected time to complete tasks or work.

Changes in Concentration

• Discuss if there are times of the day when concentration is better or worse, and adjust working pattern/practice accordingly, where possible.
• Review and prioritise task allocation and workload.
• Provide memory-assisting equipment, such as books for lists or action boards.
• Offer quiet space to work.
• Reduce interruptions and provide guidelines of ways to communicate (such as when to use email, Teams etc).
• Have agreed protected time to complete tasks or work.

Anxiety and/or Panic Attacks

• Signpost counselling services provided by the University’s Employee Assistance provider, Health Assured
• Identify a ‘buddy’ for the colleague to talk to – outside of work their area and/or notify them about the University’s Menopause Cafes for peer support.
• Encourage regular breaks if working at desk for long periods, including movement during lunch breaks.
• Identify any tasks or work activities that may serve as triggers, and collaborate to consider how these might be practically managed

Line Managers may also wish to make it clear that they do not wish to impinge in any way on health advice or guidance colleagues are following.

Depending on the discussion, they may wish to ask colleagues whether they have visited the GP, but only as a way of guiding what might work best for supporting their transition of hormonal change in the workplace.

If they have visited their GP, and are being supported by them, it may be helpful at this point to make an Occupational Health referral to give specific advice regarding the workplace and any related risk assessment.