In the vibrant setting of London’s Langan’s Brasserie, a significant event unfolded to spotlight the pressing issue of women’s health in midlife, specifically focusing on menopause. The occasion, prominently timed with World Menopause Month, brought together a constellation of influential figures, including television personalities and health advocates, for the HELLO! Changemakers Breakfast. This panel event aimed to not only highlight the advancements made in promoting awareness around menopause but also to celebrate businesses that have actively supported women navigating this life stage within their professional environments.
The event was shaped by a collaboration between HELLO! magazine and Wellbeing of Women, a charity committed to transforming women’s health. Their merger has made significant strides since launching the Menopause Workplace Pledge in 2021, with the initiative now boasting over 3,000 organizational commitments. This well-attended breakfast was more than a celebration; it served as a critical platform for discussion, empowerment, and recognition of those who have made impactful contributions to women’s health.
At the heart of the panel, Mariella Frostrup, an advocate for women’s health issues, voiced concerns about the inadequacies in how workplace policies address menopause. She poignantly pointed out that traditional workplace structures are still heavily biased toward male experiences, which often leaves women’s health concerns overlooked. Frostrup’s comments resonated deeply with attendees, as they reflect a common sentiment shared by many women in various stages of their careers. With research suggesting that companies that empower their female workforce enjoy greater financial success, it becomes evident that addressing menopause in the workplace is not just ethical—it’s also economically prudent.
Moreover, Frostrup emphasized the importance of comprehensive healthcare checks for women aged 40 and above, particularly the glaring absence of menopause discussions in current health protocols. She argued that it is crucial for the healthcare system to acknowledge menopause as it plays a significant role in women’s susceptibility to conditions such as osteoporosis and heart disease. This gap in healthcare practices highlights a need for systemic change, urging policymakers to rethink health assessments for older women.
The breakfast event set a positive tone with a mindfulness session led by Poppy Delbridge, which effectively primed the audience for an open dialogue about the pressing issues surrounding menopause. A variety of perspectives emerged during the discussions, particularly from panelists who shared how their organizations are implementing supportive practices. For instance, Victoria McKenzie Gould from Marks & Spencer detailed their initiative to create menopause-friendly uniforms designed with comfort in mind, accommodating the physical and psychological impacts of menopause.
Nadia Alibhai, an Osteopath and founder of Back 2 Well-Being, spoke about the integration of menopause awareness into her organization’s daily routine. She highlighted the importance of creating supportive spaces for employees, emphasizing practices such as breathing exercises and a calming environment as pivotal in aiding women during this period.
Michelle Griffith Robinson’s contributions were particularly striking as she addressed the intersectionality of race and menopause. As a powerful figure advocating for representation, Robinson shared her personal journey and the importance of visibility for women of color. She reflected on her objective to create a supportive narrative that diverges from outdated stereotypes about women navigating menopause. The importance of open communication in the workplace emerged as a recurring theme—Robinson’s advocacy for women to actively express their needs resonates with those feeling the pressure to conform to traditional norms.
As the discussions progressed, the emphasis on clear dialogue among employees, supervisors, and healthcare professionals was reaffirmed. Robinson encouraged women to seek the support they deserve, tapping into resources available within their workplaces.
The Changemakers Breakfast served as both a celebration and a call to action. Each guest’s contribution underscored a shared commitment to fostering an inclusive environment that prioritizes women’s health concerns. Those in attendance were urged to adopt proactive measures in their workplaces, advocating for policies that ease the challenges faced by women during menopause. The collaborative efforts set forth by HELLO! and Wellbeing of Women can catalyze much-needed change, ensuring that the voices of women in midlife are heard, valued, and supported.
As we move forward, it is vital for individuals and organizations alike to act as champions for women’s health, making strides toward dismantling stigmas associating menopause with silence. Such collective action can improve the lives of countless women navigating this pivotal time in their lives, transforming it from a period of challenge to one of empowerment and growth.