135 | Why & how to support people experiencing the menopause at work, with Emma Thomas

HR Coffee Time

Menopause is a topic that impacts everyone in the HR and People profession, whether personally or through supporting colleagues. In this episode of HR Coffee Time, host Fay Wallis is joined by Emma Thomas, founder of Managing the Menopause, to discuss the importance of understanding and supporting employees through menopause in the workplace.

Emma shares valuable insights on perimenopause and menopause, common symptoms, the business case for supporting employees, legal considerations, and practical strategies for creating a supportive work environment. This episode is packed with data-driven information and actionable advice for HR professionals looking to update policies, improve employee wellbeing, or build a stronger business case for menopause support.

Chapters from This Episode

[00:00] Introduction and Overview

[00:53] Meet Emma Thomas: Menopause Expert

[04:15] Defining Perimenopause and Menopause

[06:47] Common Symptoms of Perimenopause

[09:32] Impact of Menopause Symptoms at Work

[11:35] Research and Business Case for Menopause Support

[20:11] Practical Support for Menopause in the Workplace

[25:03] Book Recommendation: "Revolting Women" by Dr. Lucy Ryan

[26:06] How to Connect With Emma Thomas

Useful Links

• Connect with Fay on LinkedIn
• Fay’s website: Bright Sky Career Coaching
• Connect with Emma Thomas on LinkedIn
• Emma’s website: Managing the Menopause
• Emma’s podcast: Middling Along

Research and Resources Mentioned

• CIPD 2023 Menopause at Work survey
• CIPD: Menopause at work – guide for people managers
• Deloitte Women at Work 2024 report
• BSI guide on menstruation and menopause in the workplace
• ACAS: Menopause at work
• Cycle of Change: Animation explaining the menopause

Other Relevant HR Coffee Time Episodes

Episode 42: Diversity and Inclusion at Work, Seven Mistakes to Avoid and what to do instead with Dr. Jonathan Ashong-Lamptey

Book Recommendation From the Episode

‘Revolting Women: Why Midlife Women Are Walking Out and What to Do About It’ by Dr. Lucy Ryan

Looking For the Transcript?

You can find the transcript on this page of the Bright Sky Career Coaching website.

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3R Strategy's Free Resources & Fay's HR Planning Day

Become a member of 3R Strategy's free Pay & Reward Academy, or access their free resources by visiting: https://bit.ly/3racademy Learn more about Fay's HR Planning Day and get your ticket here: https://brightskycareercoaching.co.uk/hr-planning-day/