05/24 National Recognition for University Staff Menopause Support
The University is gaining national recognition for its work in developing a range of individual and institution-wide support structures for colleagues experiencing peri-/ menopause.
Over the last two years, the time and skills invested by colleagues across the University, from both academic schools and professional services, has resulted in a holistic suite of resources that supports individuals pre-, during and post-menopause, including:
- Regular Menopause Lounge meet-ups in-person and online
- Peer support
- Occupational Health
- Access to counselling and coaching
- Awareness-raising sessions
- Line managers are continuously equipped with skills to confidently identify the adjustments that might best support those they manage at the various stages of their journey.
- Special Menopause Collection in the University Library Menopause Collection - Bangor University
Anna Quinn, Health and Wellbeing Project Manager, said, “The broader raising of menopause as a staff wellbeing issue has been a significant undertaking, as we have collectively sought to give the subject its due prominence and remove the social taboo that has endured in the wider workplace for decades, to the detriment of too many women.”
The achievements of the last two years are acknowledged in two exciting developments. The University has been shortlisted for the UHR Award for Wellbeing as part of the Universities HR Excellence in HR awards.
HR colleagues will join other HR teams from UK higher education institutions for their online conference week when the award winners will be announced.
Bangor becomes first university in Wales to gain Menopause-friendly workplace accreditation
The University has also become the first large employer, and only University in Wales, to gain accreditation as a Menopause-Friendly Workplace. This national kitemarking scheme, administered by Henpicked, receives submissions from organisations which are scrutinised by an independent panel who decide whether accreditation is granted.
Tracy Hibbert, Chief People Officer said, “The awarding of this accreditation represents the scope and volume of work carried out by colleagues from across the University to ensure a fairer and healthier experience for colleagues during the peri-/menopause. It is a real honour to be recognised as the first large employer in Wales, and the first University in Wales, to gain the Menopause-Friendly Workplace accreditation and we will continue to make every effort to ensure we raise awareness among all our staff body.”
To join the Menopause Lounge online network please follow this link.
To register for Line Manager training sessions please follow this link.
For any further information about the menopause support available to staff please email Anna Quinn.