CLPM as a small businesses creates a supportive environment for those going through the menopause?

With World Menopause Day coming up on 18th October, it is a good opportunity to organise training sessions, or group discussions to promote awareness.

It is also a time to look at support options for improving health and wellbeing, and allowing employees to continue working in a supportive environment.

 

Managing Menopause in the Workplace

It is no surprise that the majority of workers in the construction industry are men. The percentage of women in construction in the UK today is still relatively low at just 14%.

Women celebrate ‘Women In Construction Week’ early each March. Every year has a different theme, from Many Paths, One Mission in 2023 to ‘Keys to the Future’ planned for 2024. There are lots of resources to encourage women into the construction industry, within a wide variety of roles now available.

Businesses need to be able to support women through their whole workplace journey, this goes through pregnancy, childbirth, early years as well as menopause. Especially at a time when we are experiencing an aging population, and economic times are hard meaning people are working into an older age than perhaps before.

But it is estimated that 10% of women leave the profession due to workplace barriers related to menopause. In such a male dominated environment, such issues can be difficult to be open about and discuss.

Indeed, one in four women will consider leaving the workforce as a result.

 

What to do?

The first point is to recognise that you are in one of the stages. Once you familiarise yourself with the possible symptoms, it is essential to visit your GP. There are a number of options open to you to manage your symptoms. These are often trial and error until you find one that is right for you.

It is best to try to keep to a routine, there is the possibility that day to day activities may distract you for a while.

Make Menopause Matter is a charity that provides a host of information for women and businesses.

They have produced a comprehensive guide to understanding symptoms, treatment options and myths. This is a great place to start.

 

Strategies to help cope with menopause symptoms?

Managing menopause can be challenging for anyone, regardless of their profession.

Here are some strategies for construction workers to manage menopause effectively:

1. Stay Informed: It’s essential for women in construction to understand the physical and emotional changes that occur during menopause. Knowledge about symptoms and potential health risks can help in managing them.
2. Open Communication: Workers should feel comfortable discussing their menopause-related concerns with their employers and colleagues. Creating an open and supportive work environment can make it easier for women to navigate this phase of life. Companies can provide training and education on menopause to all employees, helping reduce stigma and increase understanding.
3. Flexible Work Arrangements: Some construction companies may offer flexible work arrangements, allowing employees to adjust their schedules or workload during menopausal symptoms. This flexibility can help women manage their symptoms more effectively.
4. Adequate Breaks: Adequate rest and breaks are crucial, especially during hot weather. Menopausal symptoms like hot flushes can make working in high temperatures more challenging, so frequent breaks can be essential.
5. Hydration: Staying well-hydrated is vital, as menopausal women may experience more significant hot flushes. Employees should have access to water and taking regular breaks to hydrate can help.
6. Cooling Measures: Construction sites can be hot, and hot flushes can be intense during menopause. Encourage the use of cooling products like cooling vests or neck wraps to help manage temperature fluctuations.
7. Personal Protective Equipment: Ensure that PPE is comfortable and breathable. Adjustable and well-ventilated PPE can help make working conditions more comfortable.
8. Health and Wellness Programs: Employers may consider offering health and wellness programs that include information and support for menopausal workers. These programs can provide guidance on nutrition, exercise, and stress management. Menopause can impact mental health, leading to mood swings and anxiety. Access to counselling or support groups can help women in construction manage these emotional challenges.
9. Supportive Work Environment: A supportive work environment is crucial. Colleagues and supervisors should be understanding and respectful of a worker’s needs during menopause.
10. Seek Medical Advice: Encourage construction workers to consult with their healthcare providers to discuss treatment options for managing menopausal symptoms.

 

How can businesses help with the impact of menopause?

It is important to say again that the first port of call for anyone experiencing symptoms associated with menopause, should be to consult their GP.  Once symptoms have been diagnosed, living and dealing with them at work is a crucial part of the menopause journey. However, there is still an element of embarrassment and stigma attached to the subject, which means that a supportive environment in the workplace is so important.

You may want to talk openly with those around you, or you may find the ear of a friendly colleague better, either way it is best your line manager is made aware.

 

Ideal Work Place Policies

• The menopause can have a big impact on the daily lives of employees and, in turn, a negative impact on their performance and attendance at work. Knowing that some symptoms may last for several years, it is important to work together.
• Organisations should treat the menopause as they would any other health issue, not only to break the stigma and taboo surrounding the menopause at work, but to create an inclusive environment where employees and managers feel able to discuss any reasonable adjustments that may be needed.
• Employers should communicate their positive attitude towards the menopause, so that all employees know that their employer is supportive. Developing a workplace wellbeing policy which recognises the menopause is a good starting point.
• Information and education about the menopause should be included as part of the organisation’s inclusion and diversity training for the whole workforce – inclusive of all genders.
• It’s important to use inclusive language so that nobody feels side-lined and so that everyone knows how to access any support they might need. The menopause will impact on women at different ages, those from different ethnic backgrounds, those with disabilities, as well as trans and non-binary employees. People experience the menopause in different ways and it is therefore helpful not to make assumptions but to take the lead from the individual in terms of what support they might need.

Every woman’s experience with menopause is unique.

The key is to create a supportive and inclusive work environment. One that recognises and addresses the specific needs and challenges of women going through this natural phase of life in the construction industry.

With approximately fifty percent of the world population due to experience menopause, the other fifty percent will know or love somebody who experiences menopause. This is why menopause matters.

 

These are all points we have learnt at a recent event. We would like to share our desire to ensure our colleagues are well supported.

 

Resources and Reading available

There are two versions of guidance via the RIBA website: RIBA Menopause Guidance for Colleagues and RIBA Menopause Guidance for Line Managers.

Menopause Matters is an award winning, independent website providing up-to-date, accurate information, well worth a read.

 

Please note
While we predominantly talk about women in relation to the menopause in this guidance. We also recognise that it can impact some transgender and non-binary people who will require support and flexibility relevant to their needs.

 

CLPM

CLPM are a small Construction Consultancy who help clients with a huge variety of residential and commercial construction projects. We pride ourselves on the relationships we build with our clients.

We work on all types of projects from wrap-around extensions to business premises refurbishments. And from historic building restorations to multi-million pound new builds. Our team are experts in Quantity Surveying, and Project Management

We also work with clients to provide solutions on how best to make improvements to their property’s energy efficiency and heating arrangements.

If you would like to know more about CLPM please contact us on 01923 896550 or here!