A new free online resource launched today will help employers across the UK respond more effectively to menopause in the workplace, boosting retention, improving wellbeing and helping to build more inclusive workplace cultures.
In partnership with Lancaster University, Wellbeing of Women have launched MENO-Kit, the UK's first evidence-based menopause workplace toolkit, which translates more than a decade of academic research into practical, accessible guidance for employers.
Designed to support whole organisations, MENO-Kit is a multimedia resource for managers, HR and Occupational Health teams, EDI leads, trade unions and employees. It includes four practical modules covering menopause awareness, symptom management, menopause champion training and cognitive behavioural strategies.
MENO-kit has been informed by a series of research studies conducted by Lancaster University, the University of Nottingham and King's College London. This included the UK's first large scale study of women's experience of menopause at work carried out at the University of Nottingham, which identified key symptoms affecting working life, such as fatigue, poor concentration, low mood and hot flushes. It also flagged what working women would find helpful by way of employer support.
I am so pleased the Wellbeing of Women's toolkit is now available. It presents the culmination of many years' research by Claire Hardy, Myra Hunter and myself at our three universities. It's a clear story: women represent nearly half the working population and menopause is a normal event in their lives. Those who experience difficulties appreciate understanding and support. And it's not difficult to provide. I really hope that the next generation of working women, their colleagues and their managers will find the toolkit helpful."
The toolkit has been rigorously tested in eight UK organisations spanning the public, private and charity sectors. In total, 2,162 people, mostly women in their mid-40s and 50s, contributed across the studies.
The launch comes at a time of growing urgency for employers. Research from McKinsey & Company highlights the significant economic opportunity of closing the women's health gap, estimating it could unlock up to £11bn a year for the UK economy. Meanwhile, the NHS Confederation has underscored the economic case for investing in women's health, pointing to clear links between better support, improved workforce retention, and reduced pressure on both employers and public services.
Alongside this, employer-focused research continues to show the real-world impact of menopause at work. A recent poll revealed that 28% of women have considered leaving work due to symptoms, 31% report reduced productivity, and many still face stigma or barriers to open conversation[1] highlighting the need for better workplace support.
MENO-kit has been developed to help organisations respond to these challenges with practical, evidence-based tools that build confidence, reduce stigma, improve wellbeing and help retain experienced staff.
The launch is marked by an online event featuring a keynote from the Rt Hon Dame Diana Johnson, Minister of State for Employment, a live demonstration of MENO-kit by Dr Abby Morris, and a discussion on practical approaches to creating menopause-supportive workplaces.
Janet Lindsay, Chief Executive at Wellbeing of Women, said: "Too many women still struggle in silence during menopause at work, with many employers lacking the tools to respond effectively. MENO-Kit addresses this gap, offering practical, evidence-based ways for organisations to better support their people. It helps women stay working, thrive, and realise their potential at work. We're hugely grateful to the research teams whose expertise has made this possible."
Dr Abigail Morris, lecturer in Workplace Health and Wellbeing at Lancaster University, said: "We're delighted to launch Meno-Kit which represents an important step forward in supporting organisations across the UK to take a proactive and informed approach to menopause in the workplace. By providing practical tools, evidence-based guidance and a structured framework for action, the resource will help organisations develop effective menopause action plans, foster more inclusive and supportive workplace cultures, and better support women experiencing menopause to remain healthy, engaged and thriving at work. We believe Meno-Kit has the potential to drive meaningful organisational change while improving the everyday working lives and wellbeing of women across the UK workforce."
Davina McCall, Wellbeing of Women Ambassador, said: "Menopause shouldn't be something women hide or struggle with alone at work or anywhere. It's a normal life stage, not a personal failing. By talking about menopause openly and putting the right support in place, workplaces can make a huge difference to women's wellbeing, confidence and careers enabling them to thrive at work."
