A NEW menopause policy is being rolled out at Dumfries and Galloway Council.
And as a result, the local authority is set to become accredited with the Wellbeing of Women Menopause Workplace Pledge.
It has come about in recognition that 75 per cent of the council workforce is female and 21 per cent of the, are aged between 45 and 54. According to reports, this age group typically experiences the early stages of menopause (perimenopause) or has reached menopause.
A report on the policy, which went before councillors, noted: “The effects of menopause can have an impact on the daily lives of employees, and in turn this can influence performance and attendance at work. It is therefore important that the council considers what arrangements need to be put in place to support the needs of our workforce in relation to menopause.”
Officials say the benefits of having such a policy locally will include:
A more motivated, healthy and productive workforce.
Reduced sickness absence.
Increase retention of skilled, knowledgeable, and experienced staff.
Attraction of high calibre talent to jobs within the council.
A more inclusive workplace.
Improved equity, diversity and inclusion.
Improved performance and quality of services.
They added: “The aims and objectives of this policy is to provide as much support and flexibility as possible to employees and to help them sustain and improve their quality of working and out of work lives.”
Agreeing it, Councillor Ian Carruthers said: “This important policy will enable staff affected by menopause to take time to manage their symptoms and will be encouraged to be proactive in getting the right support at the right time to help them stay healthy at work.”
