New measures are planned
Menopausal woman working with South Lanarkshire Council are set to benefit from a raft of new support measures.
Members of the Executive Committee were set to meet today to discuss the development of a menopause policy, which was expected to be approved.
The authority aims to launch the policy on World Menopause Day, on October 18.
A report put before councillors outlined the need for such a policy, with the council workforce made up of 11,035 women – 68 per cent of whom are over the age of 40.
It stated: “The policy will provide support to these employees and guidance for line managers in supporting individuals who may be experiencing the symptoms of the menopause.”
Measures set to be introduced include help with symptoms, such as being able to request a fan to manage hot flushes, and taking time out from others to cope with low moods.
Women experiencing menopausal symptoms will also have easy access to toilet facilities, fresh drinking water and be able to attend a quiet area “if they need to manage a severe flush”.
Employees who are suffering from a lack of sleep due to the menopause will also be considered for flexible working, while those suffering from anxiety or panic attacks will be able to attend an employee counselling service and undertake mindfulness activities, such as breathing exercises or going for a walk.
The report also emphasised the need for employees to be able to speak with their managers about their symptoms.
It continued: “Many organisations have introduced a menopause policy in order to ensure employees know their employer has a positive attitude to the issue and that it is not something women should feel embarrassed about discussing.
“In addition, requests to consider establishing a policy to support employees have been made by trade unions and elected members.
“It is important that the council understands the difficulties and anxieties which are faced by women going through this change and that it manages these issues by raising awareness, and providing training and development for all line managers.”
Depute provost of South Lanarkshire, Councillor Collette Stevenson, welcomed the move, saying: “I am so pleased that the council is putting this policy at the heart of the women and equalities agenda. It is a ‘work in progress’ policy with a purpose of creating a culture of support, inclusivity and equality.”