BOSSES could be sued for discrimination if they fail to look after menopausal members of staff.
Guidance from the equalities watchdog said women experiencing symptoms should be allowed to work from home.
Other advice includes improving office ventilation, relaxing uniform policy to allow for cooler clothing and providing rest areas.
The Equality and Human Rights Commission said the menopause can be considered a disability under the Equality Act as symptoms can have a “long-term and substantial impact” on workers.
Chairwoman Baroness Falkner of Margravine said: “As Britain’s equality watchdog, we are concerned both by how many women report being forced out of a role due to their menopause-related symptoms and how many don’t feel safe enough to request the workplace adjustments.
“An employer understanding their legal duties is the foundation of equality in the workplace.
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“But it is clear that many may not fully understand their responsibility to protect staff going through the menopause.
“Our new guidance sets out these legal obligations for employers and provides advice on how they can best support their staff.
“But it is clear many may not fully understand their responsibility to protect staff going through the menopause.”
Post-menopausal women are the fastest-growing work group, with nearly five million aged 50 to 64.
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What is the menopause and what age does it usually start?
Menopause is a natural part of ageing, which usually happens when a woman is between the age of 45 and 55.
In the UK, the average age for a woman to go through menopause is 51.
It occurs when oestrogen levels in the body start to decline.
During this time periods become less frequent or they can suddenly stop, and after menopause occurs women will be unable to become pregnant naturally.
Around one in 100 women experience menopause before the age of 40, and this is known as premature ovarian insufficiency or premature menopause.
Many celebrities have spoken out about their own experiences, including Lisa Snowdon, Davina McCall, Michelle Heaton and Zoe Hardman.
What are the symptoms?
Menopausal symptoms can start months or years before your periods stop, and can last until four years or longer after your last period.
Symptoms include:
- Hot flushes
- Changing or irregular periods
- Difficulty in sleeping
- Anxiety and loss of confidence
- Low mood, irritability and depression
- Night sweats
- Vaginal dryness or discomfort during sex
- Reduced libido (sex drive)
- Problems with concentration or memory
- Weight gain
- Bladder control
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Adam Sonin
