LawFlash
In its report on menopause in the workplace, the UK House of Commons Women and Equalities Committee recommended that menopause be considered a protected characteristic under Section 14 of the Equality Act. In the meantime, there are a number of steps employers can take to protect employees experiencing menopause in the workplace.
With International Menopause Day approaching on 18 October, it is an opportune time to reflect on the huge strides made in the United Kingdom and globally regarding menopause awareness and support. People are increasingly willing to speak openly about menopause and its impact on all aspects of life, including at home, with family and friends, and at work. Employers are recognising the role they play in supporting employees experiencing menopause, and the government has taken steps to consider how far this should go.
On 28 July 2022, the House of Commons Women and Equalities Committee (the Committee) issued its report “Menopause and the workplace” (the Report). With a large and increasing proportion of the workforce suffering often-debilitating menopause symptoms, the Report is an important step in promoting greater support for those individuals.
The Report cites many problematic symptoms of menopause, including difficulty sleeping, loss of concentration, hot flushes, stress, and anxiety or depression. Compounding these symptoms, the Committee found a lack of support and discrimination affecting menopausal women. Despite the relatively low...
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https://www.morganlewis.com/pubs/2022/10/uk-discrimination-protections-new-fr...