Supporting the NHS workforce and local communities on World Menopause Day

NHS organisations in Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes have re-committed to creating a supportive working environment which champions the wellbeing of their female workforce so that women stay healthy and thrive through the menopause.

Nationally the NHS employs over 1.5 million people, around three-quarters of whom are women.  Women between the ages of 45 and 54 make up a fifth of all NHS staff, meaning up to 20% of the workforce could be experiencing menopausal symptoms.

In recognition of World Menopause Day (Friday 18 October), Milton Keynes University Hospital is offering all colleagues the opportunity to join one of two “Menopause Nutrition” workshops with expert Daksha Fort, a renowned Personal Nutritionist and Wellness Consultant.

The interactive one-hour sessions will focus on the unique nutritional needs during menopause, helping colleagues better understand how to manage symptoms through a balanced diet and lifestyle adjustments.

In addition, Dr Jennifer Cusack, General Practitioner and Menopause Specialist, will host a 45-minute webinar on the medical management of menopause.  The session will cover the latest approaches to managing menopause symptoms from a medical perspective.

Martha Roberts, chief people officer at Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes Integrated Care Board, said:

“Supporting our colleagues through menopause is not just about acknowledging the challenges they face, but actively creating an environment where they feel understood, valued and empowered.  By fostering open conversations and providing the necessary resources, we can ensure that every team member thrives both personally and professionally.”

Women in Luton already have access to a Women’s Health Hub, part of the NHS Women’s Health Strategy for England.  Services are still being developed, but it will offer tailored healthcare advice which aims to improve access and quality of services for menstrual problems, contraception, pelvic pain and menopause care.  Further Women’s Health Hubs are due to open in Bedford and Milton Keynes over the coming months. For more information on managing symptoms, treatment options and available support, please visit the menopause pages at nhs.uk.