Menopause support for staff and students

Menopause is a natural transition that affects around half of the population.

The term menopause refers to the point 12 months after a woman’s last menstrual period, but it is generally used to describe the months or years prior to this during which hormone levels fluctuate and women may experience a range of symptoms.

Women generally go through menopause between 45 and 55, but it can happen earlier (either for natural reasons or because of illness/medical treatment). While most of those experiencing menopause are women, trans men and non-binary people may also go through the menopause.

There is no single menopause experience. For some it is a manageable transition, but for others it can be very challenging. Given that women between 45 – 55 make up a growing proportion of our community, it is important to provide appropriate support. 

There is lots on offer to help you learn about and/or manage menopause at the University of Leeds.

The Wellbeing, Safety and Health site offers links to relevant policy, guidance, support and information for staff.

Information and support for students is available via Togetherall. 

Organisational Development, Professional Learning (OD&PL) run regular menopause in the workplace sessions for all staff, and for those with management responsibilities.

Meno-pause for Thought cafes offer a regular, respectful and confidential space to discuss the menopause. The cafes are open to all (there are cafes for students as well) and are held both face-to-face and online.

In AHC we want to encourage all staff and students, regardless of age and gender, to learn about and discuss the menopause.

We also want to ensure that we are effectively supporting anyone who might be struggling with menopausal symptoms. If you would like to share your experience or make a suggestion to improve menopause support please get in touch with EDI Project Officer Susan Preston.