“Absolutely eye-opening”

 “I had no idea that the menopause could have such wide-ranging symptoms”

 “Thank you so much! To think that I have been suffering in silence assuming that was just the way things were for me only to find that I am not alone and there is help I am able to access” 

Just some of the email comments from Paula Eckton’s colleagues at Bournemouth law firm, Steele Raymond.

They followed awareness training by Nicola Green, Workplace Menopause Expert.

But the biggest impression on Paula, a Partner with the firm, was the reaction of a male colleague who attended the session.

She said: “He explained to me afterwards that, before the training, he really had no appreciation for what the menopause might entail.

“But the information provided by Nicola has really given him food for thought in a number of aspects.

“Firstly in respect of his own personal life knowing that his wife may currently be, or will be going, through this and how he can best support her.

“Secondly to the impact on our employees and, in turn, the firm generally.

“Until the recent movement in menopause awareness, the connection between menopause support in the workplace and productivity, sickness and staff turnover was rarely, if at all, made by employers.

“In my experience women often feel embarrassed to discuss such issues, assuming they are even aware that what they are experiencing is due to the menopause.

“I’ve heard too many women say that they assumed that they are just not clever enough, or are getting older and therefore cannot cope with the demands of their job.

“In fact, what they are experiencing is menopause related and can be addressed, often by simple adjustments.

“Sadly many wonderful women with amazing skills lose their confidence entirely and end up leaving their roles.

“Not only does this impact on the individual, but the relevant firm and the legal sector loses valuable skills and experience.

“There will be a cost to replace that which, in all likelihood, will far exceed the cost involved in the provision of support to the individual.”

Paula, pictured with Nicola, said the impact on Steele Raymond of the menopause awareness training was immediate.

She said: “My colleagues who may have been experiencing issues were reassured that it wasn’t their ‘fault’ and felt more equipped to seek further help and advice.

“Colleagues, male and female alike, who had no direct experience themselves were now able to recognise some of the symptoms and how they could help, be it their own family members, friends or fellow employees.

“The Partners, as business owners, were able to understand the connection which ultimately impacts on the bottom line.

“As a result of this we have been eager for Nicola to come back and provide us with further help and assistance.

“We view this with the same degree of importance as mental health awareness which is far more widely recognised by the business community generally.

“Many menopause symptoms impact on mental health, for example anxiety, and should therefore be treated accordingly.

“We are ensuring that our appointed mental health first aiders are alert to the menopause as part of their training.

“The menopause really does affect everyone – not just those going through it.

“I recommend every firm treats the menopause with the seriousness it deserves and ensure they provide a supportive environment at work which, in turn, will result in increased engagement and retention of valuable talent.”

Nicola, who worked in the legal sector for 23 years before starting her consultancy in 2019, said: “Some may wonder why there is a need to raise awareness about menopause when firms have managed for many years without doing so.

“Others may feel it is never going to happen to them; so why do they need to know?

“Whatever your personal thoughts, you may wish to consider the fact that at some point in our lives, we will either directly or indirectly be impacted by menopause at work or at home.

“It is also worth taking a moment to consider the unknown financial cost menopause is having on your business.

“It is a cost of sick leave, staff turnover and productivity if menopause is not understood and supported.

“Some may also feel rather concerned as to how you even start the conversation; let alone make it comfortable.

“I can assure you, it is very easy to do so!”

• nicolagreenconsultancy.co.uk