9th Apr 2025 - Written by Brunelcare
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Brunelcare is proud to announce the launch of our new Menopause Policy, which reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting the health and wellbeing of all our employees.
As a charity based in Bristol, we are always striving to ensure that our workplace is one where everyone, regardless of age or gender, can thrive both personally and professionally. With this new policy, we’re taking a significant step forward in creating a supportive environment for those experiencing menopause.
Empowering Employees with Flexible Support
Our Menopause Policy applies to all Brunelcare employees, including those working remotely or part-time, ensuring that everyone has access to the support they need. The policy offers a variety of helpful measures, such as:
- Flexible working hours
- The option for remote work
- Temperature-controlled environments
- Adjustments to workstations or uniforms to help manage symptoms
In addition, we have ensured that employees have access to valuable resources, including educational materials and support services. Furthermore, employees can take paid time off for menopause-related medical appointments, allowing them to focus on their health without the added stress of work.
A People-Focused Culture
Brunelcare employs approximately 1,100 people, 84% of whom are women. A significant portion of our workforce, around 42%, are women aged 45 or older, which places them in the age bracket most likely to experience menopause. As part of our ongoing commitment to creating a people-focused culture, we wanted to ensure that our employees have the resources and understanding they need to navigate this important stage of life.
Brunelcare developed this policy in collaboration with the Bristol Menopause & Wellwoman Clinic, which also provided training for the charity’s managers, mental health first-aiders, and HR team. This training ensures that menopause-related discussions are handled with sensitivity, respect, and confidentiality, creating an environment where employees feel safe and supported.
Why It Matters
A 2023 report by the Chartered Institute for Personnel and Development (CIPD) highlighted that 73% of employees it surveyed had experienced menopause symptoms, with 67% stating that these symptoms had a mostly negative effect on their work. In fact, over half (53%) of those surveyed reported being unable to go to work due to menopause symptoms. Despite these challenges, the same report found that only 24% of organisations had a menopause policy in place.
These statistics highlight the importance of providing clear, compassionate, and informed support for those navigating menopause in the workplace. Our Menopause Policy is a vital part of our effort to ensure that all employees at Brunelcare can continue to thrive in their roles, no matter what stage of life they are at.
Brian Whittaker, Director of People Services and Organisational Development at Brunelcare, said: “We are so thrilled to be finally launching the menopause policy! It’s a huge step in the right direction for us as a charity. With the policy now in place, confidentiality is a key aspect, and we’re committed to regularly reviewing and updating it based on employee feedback. Providing inclusive and compassionate support is not just important; it’s essential to retaining talented staff and ensuring their health and wellbeing are prioritized.”
Julie Walker, Centre Manager at Brunelcare’s Colliers Gardens Extra Care Housing scheme, also expressed her excitement: “Brunelcare is creating a supportive and flexible work environment for employees experiencing menopause. It’s great that the policy has come into play, and it’ll make a huge difference to our female workforce!”
Looking Ahead
We’re proud to be one of the organisations leading the way in supporting employees through the menopause, and we’re committed to regularly reviewing the policy to ensure it remains effective and up to date. The policy will be reviewed every three years, or sooner if there are changes in legislation or procedures.