A new free online resource launched on Thursday 4th of June aims to help UK employers respond more effectively to menopause in the workplace, with a focus on improving wellbeing, supporting retention and strengthening workplace culture.
The toolkit, called MENO-Kit, has been developed by Wellbeing of Women in partnership with Lancaster University. It is described as the UK’s first evidence based menopause workplace toolkit and translates more than a decade of academic research into practical guidance for organisations.
Designed for use across whole organisations, MENO-Kit brings together content for managers, HR teams, occupational health professionals, EDI leads, trade unions and employees. It includes four modules covering menopause awareness, symptom management, menopause champion training and cognitive behavioural strategies.
The resource is informed by research conducted by Lancaster University, the University of Nottingham and King’s College London. This includes the UK’s first large scale study of women’s experience of menopause at work, which identified symptoms affecting working life such as fatigue, poor concentration, low mood and hot flushes.
Research and Evidence Behind Workplace Menopause Support
The launch comes amid growing attention on the economic and workforce impact of menopause. Research from McKinsey & Company highlights the potential economic gains from closing the women’s health gap, estimating it could unlock up to £11bn a year for the UK economy. The NHS Confederation has also pointed to the economic case for improved women’s health support, linking better workplace provision with stronger retention and reduced pressure on employers and public services.
Separate employer focused research suggests the workplace impact is already significant. A recent poll found that 28% of women have considered leaving work due to menopause symptoms, while 31% report reduced productivity. It also highlighted ongoing stigma and barriers to open discussion at work.
The MENO-Kit launch event includes contributions from the Rt Hon Dame Diana Johnson, Minister of State for Employment, alongside a live demonstration by Dr Abby Morris and a discussion on creating menopause supportive workplaces.
Janet Lindsay, Chief Executive at Wellbeing of Women, said, “Too many women still struggle in silence during menopause at work, with many employers lacking the tools to respond effectively. MENO-Kit addresses this gap, offering practical, evidence based ways for organisations to better support their people. It helps women stay working, thrive, and realise their potential at work. We’re hugely grateful to the research teams whose expertise has made this possible.”
Practical Tools for Employers
The toolkit has been developed to provide structured support for organisations looking to introduce or strengthen menopause policies and practices. It aims to build confidence among managers, reduce stigma and improve everyday working experiences for women affected by menopause symptoms.
Dr Abigail Morris, lecturer in Workplace Health and Wellbeing at Lancaster University, said, “We’re delighted to launch Meno-Kit which represents an important step forward in supporting organisations across the UK to take a proactive and informed approach to menopause in the workplace.
“By providing practical tools, evidence based guidance and a structured framework for action, the resource will help organisations develop effective menopause action plans, foster more inclusive and supportive workplace cultures, and better support women experiencing menopause to remain healthy, engaged and thriving at work. We believe Meno-Kit has the potential to drive meaningful organisational change while improving the everyday working lives and wellbeing of women across the UK workforce.”
Davina McCall, Wellbeing of Women Ambassador, said: “Menopause shouldn’t be something women hide or struggle with alone at work or anywhere. It’s a normal life stage, not a personal failing. By talking about menopause openly and putting the right support in place, workplaces can make a huge difference to women’s wellbeing, confidence and careers enabling them to thrive at work.”