18th October 2023
South Devon College is marking World Menopause Day today, to raise awareness of the menopause and the support options available for improving health and wellbeing. The theme for World Menopause Day 2023 is cardiovascular disease.
To ensure the support is available within the workplace, staff have been offered the chance to attend a webinar, hosted by Care First, which is an opportunity to further their knowledge of the menopause and the physical and mental changes it can cause.
The College is committed to being a responsible and socially aware employer, and has launched a new ongoing support group, the Staff Menopause and Hormone Rebalancing Group. The group, organised by Karen Parry, Health and Wellbeing Coordinator, is for all staff who are wanting to learn more, offer support, make suggestions, share advice and ask questions about the menopause.
Karen said: “The aim of the group is to discuss how the College can best support staff experiencing symptoms of menopause, and to create a more open and supportive culture to ensure everyone is comfortable speaking about their symptoms and needs without any fear of judgment – any contribution and involvement is welcome.”
The College is also planning training courses, designed to equip staff members with practical knowledge, techniques, and understanding on how to develop a positive and supportive mindset towards the potential challenges associated with menopause, and how to support colleagues experiencing these changes.