A Happy (albeit menopausal) Christmas From Me To You!

Surgical menopause has been a challenging journey for me over the past four years - a reality many women face daily and often without enough workplace support.  I’m incredibly lucky to have worked with amazing understanding colleagues who have made this journey a little easier for me - Ive also worked with some who have not - just imagine posting on World Menopause Day about how brilliantly you are supporting your female staff whilst in reality you are disregarding every single clause contained within a Policy you happily let her write - and all in the name of Social Value - sickening right!!

For businesses that support their staff through menopause “Thank You”.  For those that don’t – it really is time to step up! Menopause is costing workplaces valuable talent - yet with the right policies and initiatives – such as dedicated forums  - access to credible advice -  signposting - flexible working arrangements and being authentic around the subject - businesses can retain and empower incredible women - theres many who are not ready to throw the towel in but sometimes feel that there are very few options...

Lived experiences like mine have taught me the value of empathy and understanding - qualities that directly inform my work in social value. These challenges can be transformed into actionable change - building workplaces that truly support people at all stages of life

Despite my personal hurdles I’m proud to work in social value – I wouldn’t want to do anything else – its a field that aligns so deeply with who I am.  As one door closes another always opens and I’m excited for what’s ahead.  2025 is going to present challenges for sure but nothing is insurmountable – especially when you are lucky enough to have an amazing network like mine

So Thank You for the connection and I am wishing everyone a wonderful Christmas - here’s to championing social value and menopause friendly workplaces in 2025 (as much as my menopausal bones will allow!)