Coventry City are supporting World Menopause Day which is today, 18th October.
The aim of the day is to raise awareness of the menopause for all people – whether they are directly affected or not.
As part of the Sky Blues’ backing for the day, the Club is launching a Menopause Policy for members of staff, ensuring that women have the support they need and that all staff are aware of the symptoms and stages of menopause.
The menopause is a natural event in most women’s lives, which usually occurs between the ages of 45 and 55 but can sometimes start as early as in the late 20s, and typically lasts between two and four years, although in some cases can last much longer.
During this time, they stop having periods and experience hormonal changes.
Menopause is often a subject that’s not discussed openly. It can often feel very isolating for women and many people are reluctant to let anyone know they’re experiencing it, especially in the workplace, and they therefore fail to access the best available support for them.
The most common symptoms include:
- Hot flushes
- Night sweats
- Sleep disruption
- Fatigue
- Mood disturbances including anxiety and depression
- Headaches
- Irregular periods/heavy bleeding
- Bone and Joint problems
- Difficulty concentrating/Memory problems/Loss of confidence/Brain fog
More details and support can be seen for fans online at: Menopause - Help and support - NHS (www.nhs.uk)
The Club’s new policy will recognise that some employees may need additional considerations to support and improve their experience and wellbeing at work, and that they may be affected by menopause in a number of ways: personally, via a relative (wife/partner, mother, sister, daughter), or a colleague.
Sandra Garlick, Head of HR, Legal & Compliance at Coventry City said:
“It’s important for all staff to be aware of the symptoms of menopause and that we work in an environment where it’s not considered a taboo subject. The Club’s launch of the Menopause Policy on World Menopause Day will educate all staff and bolsters a suite of measures available to support staff throughout the Club on a range of health and wellbeing topics.”
Coventry City encourages fans to talk about the menopause and to seek support where needed, as well as educating themselves - including male fans, who will have a family member, friend, work colleague who will experience the menopause at some point in their life. By everyone being more educated, we will be able to provide greater support in these circumstances.