Council to offer extra menopause support

WOMEN working at Torfaen council who are experiencing the menopause could receive greater support through a new workplace policy.

Flexible working, more comfortable clothing and changes to office temperature could be considered to help employees with severe menopausal symptoms.

It is thought that Torfaen could be the first council in Gwent to have a policy dedicated to menopause-related issues, though other authorities have guidance in place to help managers.

The 2,971 women employed by Torfaen council make up 73% of its workforce, and more than 60% of employees are within the age range that the menopause typically occurs.

A council report says there is limited awareness of the symptoms that women can suffer during the menopause, and that an unsupportive work environment can exacerbate these problems.

A survey of around 4,000 female employees by The Wales TUC found that 88% of workers who have experienced the menopause felt it influenced working life.