Gender

Certain health conditions that could give rise to sickness absence only affect women and gender is a protected characteristic under the Employment Act 2010. The menopause is one example. The TUC has for several years argued that despite the increasingly large number of older women in employment, the menopause is rarely seen as a workplace issue. It has issued guidance on the issue and employers should recognise that women of menopausal age may need extra consideration.

Research carried out in 2011 found that the five most common symptoms of menopause most likely to be made worse by work were:

• hot flushes (53%);

• headaches (46%);

• tiredness and a lack of energy (45%);

• sweating (39%); and

• anxiety attacks (33%).

Unsatisfactory workplace conditions, such as high temperatures, poor ventilation, poor or non-existent rest or toilet facilities, or a lack of access to cold drinking water at work can make the symptoms worse and affect how a woman does her work. Additionally, changes during the menopause can affect relationships with colleagues. A woman may feel uncomfortable going to her line manager, especially if it is a man. Other options should be available, such as going to a welfare officer (Supporting women through the menopause, TUC 2013).

https://www.tuc.org.uk/sites/default/files/TUC_menopause_0.pdf