We have seen a significant increase in enquiries about the menopause in recent months. At this stage, from a strict legal perspective, the menopause is not, in itself, protected under the Equality Act. However, it can be captured by protection from age, sex and disability discrimination.
Helpfully the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) guidance explains, not only the legal position, but explores practical ways that employers can encourage a culture where workers feel able to talk about their symptoms and ask for adjustments to their work.
It is hoped that the EHRC’s guidance on menopause will give women the confidence to speak openly about these issues. At the same, it should provide some much-needed support and impetus for businesses to make constructive changes to their HR polices and working practices.
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