6 ways workplaces can become more menopause-friendly

The conversation about menopause in the workplace has recently received more airtime, partly due to publicity from high-profile celebrities, but also thanks to diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I) rising up corporate agendas.

Women of menopausal age are the fastest-growing group in the European workforce according to the International Labour Organisation, while in the UK alone, a 2022 survey found almost a fifth of women aged 45 to 55 were experiencing menopause symptoms which made it difficult to do their job.

The built environment can have a profound impact on how menopause is experienced at work, and taking steps to make these spaces more menopause-friendly is not just a supportive move, but a strategic one.

To prevent those affected leaving the workforce early, at an age when their talent, skills and experience are most valuable, discussion now needs to turn to action, moving beyond HR departments and general awareness programs to encompass the buildings where employees spend most of their waking hours.

There are several ways that buildings, particularly offices, can impact colleagues experiencing menopause:

1. Temperature control
   Anyone talking about menopause will refer to hot flushes and fluctuations in body heat. Office buildings are notorious for inconsistent temperature control. Putting measures in place that allow employees to customize the temperature of their immediate workspace in certain areas, ensures comfort for everyone. Alternatively, highlighting zones where the temperature tends to run hotter or cooler, helps employees choose their desk based on personal preference.

2. Natural lighting
   Access to natural light can significantly improve mood and well-being. Designing office spaces with large windows and strategically placed workstations can help employees manage menopausal mood swings and fatigue. With JLL’s latest research* suggesting 41% of companies are already in, or transitioning to unassigned seating, workplace apps may prove helpful to those wishing to reserve a window seat on a regular basis.

3. Quiet spaces and wellness rooms
   Menopause symptoms like mood swings and anxiety require a private, tranquil space for a quick break or moment of respite. Providing multi-purpose quiet rooms allows employees to retreat when needed, while breastfeeding mothers might use the space to express and other colleagues might use them for worship. At the same time, providing larger, dedicated wellness rooms to relax or practice stress-reducing activities such as yoga or meditation can be immensely beneficial to all colleagues.

4. Ergonomics
   Back pain and joint discomfort are common during menopause. Investing in ergonomic furniture, adjustable sit-to-stand desks and assessments to ensure that workstations are tailored to individual needs, reduces the physical strain of prolonged sitting and is something all employees can benefit from. Despite current financial constraints, this is a worthwhile long-term investment that allows current and future members of the workforce to personalise their working environment, providing the same levels of comfort they’re used to at home.

5. Comfort cabinets
   Menopause provision should consider the unpredictability of symptoms and the discomfort they can cause. Offering colleagues items such as sanitary wear, shower gel, or even a selection of spare clothes in multiple sizes, can help them discretely deal with emergencies and continue their day in comfort. This space can also store relevant books and leaflets providing access to further menopause advice and support.

6. Flexible Workspaces
   Providing different types of work settings, from quiet pods to more social lounge areas or collaboration space, empowers employees to cater for their fluctuating needs throughout the day. What’s more, these spaces are vital for companies to fully operationalize hybrid work across the entire workforce, enabling the full spectrum of activity, from focused tasks to meetings and calls with both in-person and remote colleagues.

With more employers mandating the return to office, it’s a great time to prioritise the physical workspace as an integral part of the inclusivity conversation. What’s more, a global JLL survey of over 3,000 office workers found over half (52%) expect their employer to support their wellbeing and health – making the impact of the built environment on the workforce more important than ever.

Menopause-friendly office buildings not only create supportive workplaces, but position companies as leaders in fostering an inclusive and equitable work environment for all, regardless of age, gender or other individual characteristics.

By making reasonable workplace adjustments, companies have a unique opportunity to boost productivity while enhancing the health and wellbeing of all.

^{(*Source: JLL’s Anatomy of a Hybrid Office research – due for publication Nov 2023)}