Council signs Menopause Workplace Pledge
29 Jul 2022 ARCHIVED (over 3 months old) - view latest news
The Council has signed
Wellbeing of Women’s Menopause Workplace Pledge, recognising the importance of supporting staff who experience the menopause in the workplace.
The Pledge requires organisations to make three key commitments to council staff who are impacted by the symptoms of menopause and their colleagues. These commitments include:
- Recognising that the menopause can be an issue in the workplace and women need support
- Talking openly, positively and respectfully about the menopause
- Actively supporting and informing your employees affected by the menopause
Amongst those signing the pledge is Acting Deputy Chief Executive, Rick O’Farrell, Chief Fire Officer and Senior Champion of the Council’s Menopause Staff Network Group, Paul Hedley, and co-chair of the Menopause Staff Network, June Kay.
Cabinet member for Adults’ Wellbeing, Wendy Pattison, said: “The Council is extremely committed to ensuring our staff experiencing menopause are supported at work.
“I was privileged to attend last year’s Menopause Conference during Menopause Awareness Month, and to hear from staff across the organisation sharing their lived experiences.
“Signing the Menopause Workplace Pledge is a symbol of the council’s commitment to continue actively supporting employees affected by menopause.”
Paul Hedley, Chief Fire Officer and Senior Champion of the Council’s Menopause Staff Network Group, said: “Menopause is a common issue for women across NCC, which of course includes the Fire Service, and many face problems because of menopause.
“Our Menopause Staff Network Group is a great source of support for staff and allows people to come together and affect positive change in the workplace.
“It’s important that we feel comfortable having conversations about menopause -menopause not only impacts the person experiencing its symptoms, but the people around them.
“I’m keen to break the stigma and encourage more men to talk about the menopause with their partners, friends, and colleagues. In signing this Pledge, we acknowledge our commitment to making this a reality.”
The Council is also recognised as ‘Committed to being a Menopause Friendly Employer’ by Menopause Friendly and is working towards accreditation, following an independent assessment.