Workplace training
Why is workplace training important?
The average age of menopause in Australia is 51 years. Despite this, women aged 45-55 constitute a significant segment of the global workforce. Many of these women experience moderate to severe menopausal symptoms while at work. Employers must support women to ensure they continue to be effective and valued.
Employers have the responsibility to safeguard their employees from discrimination. Regulations, such as the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004, mandate workplace conditions and environments do not cause a detriment to health. This is crucial, as many menopausal women report that their workplace environment negatively impacts their health.
In the UK there have been legal cases where women have claimed to be discriminated against due to experiencing menopausal symptoms. These cases underscore the need for employers to take proactive measures, such as AMS’ workplace training to foster an inclusive workplace environment.
Evidence shows that unsupported menopausal women often leave their jobs when they do not feel supported. This creates a loss of corporate knowledge and creates costly recruitment processes. Those who remain employed, but feel unsupported, often experience more sick days and reduced productivity.
Workplaces that prioritise diversity and inclusion perform better, experience lower staff turnover, and contribute to broader gender equality. Improving gender equality can also lead to a significant increase in GDP.
About AMS
The Australasian Menopause Society (AMS) is a not-for-profit charity that has provided menopause education and training for nearly 40 years. AMS brings together doctors, nurses, allied health professionals, scientists and researchers to provide education and resources to manage menopausal symptoms, embed best practices and promote healthy ageing.
As experts in menopause management, AMS is well placed to provide workplace training to ensure women have access to the support needed to manage their menopausal transition.
What will this workplace training involve?
Workplace training sessions usually run online. They can be recorded for on-demand viewing, often serving as a good option for workplaces that operate in different time zones.
Sessions will involve a presentation and a Q&A. AMS will give an overview of menopause, discuss the impact of symptoms in the workplace and explore different options to manage symptoms. Participants will be signposted to resources and tools that can be used to provide ongoing support to people experiencing menopause.
Want to become a Menopause Champion?
AMS also offers Menopause Champion Training. AMS experts will deliver PowerPoint presentations, interactive exercises and case studies. These aim to replicate real workplace situations allowing participants to practice their skills as a Menopause Champion.
This training will:
- Define the role and responsibilities of ‘Menopause Champions’.
- Introduce participants to menopause and its impact on the workplace.
- Dispel myths and misunderstandings about menopause.
- Discuss the effect of menopause on health and how qualified healthcare professionals can help.
- Explore the emotional and psychological challenges of menopause on employees.
- Provide strategies for managing menopause symptoms and methods to create ongoing support at work.
- Offer communication techniques to initiate empathetic conversations and provide menopause support in the workplace.
- Share practical support and resources.
- Examine how ‘Menopause Champions’ can collaborate with managers to provide support.
Upon completion, ‘Menopause Champions’ will receive a certificate and digital badge for their email signature.
To discuss this further, please contact Naomi Sutton (Policy, Education and Research Officer) via email:
Disclosure: AMS has no commercial interests and provides education that is evidence-based.
Page created July 2024