Menopause matters: Supporting each other at PKAVS

At PKAVS, we are committed to supporting the health and wellbeing of all employees. This week, we’re focusing on raising awareness about menopause—an important yet often overlooked stage in many people's lives. Menopause can significantly impact both personal and professional life, and understanding how it affects our colleagues is key to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment.

For our Menopause Policy and other resources, please see the Menopause at Work page (under the Wellbeing & Support tab of the menu).

Key Facts About Menopause:

• What is Menopause?

  
  

  Menopause is a natural biological process that typically occurs in women between the ages of 45 and 55. It marks the end of menstrual cycles and is diagnosed after 12 consecutive months without a period. The average age for menopause in the UK is 51.

• Symptoms of Menopause

  
  

  The symptoms of menopause can vary but often include hot flushes, night sweats, mood swings, memory problems, and disturbed sleep. For many, these symptoms can last for several years and have a significant impact on day-to-day life.

• How Menopause Affects Work

  
  

  Menopausal symptoms, such as fatigue, poor concentration, anxiety, and mood changes, can affect performance and attendance. Research shows that some women reduce their working hours or even leave their jobs because of these challenges. It’s vital that workplaces understand the impact and offer appropriate support.

Supporting Menopause in the Workplace

At PKAVS, we want to ensure that everyone feels comfortable discussing menopause and seeking support when needed. Managers play a crucial role in creating a safe space for these conversations and providing the flexibility and adjustments that may be required.

We encourage everyone to:

• Speak openly with managers or the HR Team if you’re affected by menopause.

• Take advantage of flexible working arrangements where possible.

• Build a support network with colleagues to share experiences and offer mutual support.

For more information, you can explore these useful resources:

• NHS – Menopause Overview

• The Menopause Charity

• Faculty of Occupational Medicine – Menopause Guidance

By raising awareness and making simple adjustments, we can ensure PKAVS is a great place to work, where everyone can thrive, regardless of life stages or personal challenges.