Why Menopause-friendly workplaces are key to attracting and retaining top talent in the UK

Let’s face it: menopause is a life stage that every woman, or those assigned as female at birth will go through, yet it’s often overlooked in the workplace. In the UK, where women over 50 are the fastest-growing workforce demographic, businesses have a golden opportunity to create environments where employees feel supported. Want to keep your best talent and attract new stars? Start by making your workplace menopause-friendly! It’s a game changer for employee satisfaction, productivity, and your company’s reputation.

It’s estimated that of the 33 million people employed in the UK, nearly 6 million are experiencing menopause. While the average menopause age is 51, symptoms usually start around age 40, a stage called perimenopause. These people are often at the peak of their professional careers, yet 25% consider quitting their jobs, 14% go part-time, and 10% quit their jobs (menopausefriendly.co.uk).

In our latest poll, only 33% described their organisation as ‘very menopause friendly’. Macmillan Davies has put together a comprehensive checklist to help businesses assess how menopause-friendly their workplace is. This tool allows organisations to evaluate their current policies and identify areas for improvement. Click here to download it and take the first step towards creating a more supportive and inclusive work environment.

Here, Sam Pepperell, Associate Director at Macmillan Davies explains why creating a menopause-friendly workplace is not only the right thing to do but also a smart move for businesses trying to attract and retain top talent.

1. Keep your experienced talent happy

Women in their 40s and 50s often hold senior roles and have decades of experience. But for many, menopause symptoms like hot flashes, anxiety, and brain fog can make it tough to perform at their best. Without the right support, these talented women might cut back their hours, step down from leadership roles, or leave the workforce altogether. That’s a huge loss for your business!

By introducing menopause-friendly policies—like flexible working hours, temperature control, or access to healthcare—companies can ensure that these experienced employees stay happy, healthy, and productive. Plus, retaining this level of talent means you’re keeping all that institutional knowledge and leadership right where it belongs—on your team!

2. Boost loyalty and reduce turnover

When employees feel supported, they stick around. It's simple, really. Imagine being part of a company that makes you feel valued through every stage of life. That’s what being menopause-friendly is all about. Women who feel their company genuinely cares about their well-being are far less likely to seek employment elsewhere. And happy employees are the best kind—loyal, motivated, and eager to contribute.

On the flip side, turnover is expensive. Recruiting, onboarding, and training new hires takes time and money. So why not keep the talent you already have by offering a little extra care during menopause? It’s a win-win: you save on turnover costs, and your employees get the support they need to thrive.

3. Attract top talent with a culture of care

In today’s job market, talented professionals are looking for more than just a pay check. They want to work for companies that prioritise employee well-being and offer a healthy work-life balance. A menopause-friendly workplace is a huge plus, especially for women in their 40s and 50s who are looking for employers that understand and address their needs.

But it’s not just about older employees—menopause-friendly policies signal that your business values inclusivity and well-being for all. This boosts your reputation as a supportive and progressive employer, making your company more attractive to top candidates of all ages and genders.

4. Cut absenteeism and keep productivity high

Let’s be real, menopause can be tough. Symptoms like fatigue, sleeplessness, and memory issues can make it hard to focus at work. As a result, many women end up taking more sick days, which impacts productivity. But businesses that offer menopause-friendly accommodations can reduce absenteeism.

Whether it’s flexible work hours, mental health support, or simply making the workplace more comfortable, these adjustments can help employees manage their symptoms and stay productive. The result? Fewer disruptions, better performance, and a happier, healthier workforce.

5. Promote gender equality and career progression

Menopause should never be a roadblock in a woman’s career. Yet, without the right support, it often is. Many women find their career progression stalls around this time because they feel they have no choice but to reduce hours or step down from more demanding roles.

By creating menopause-friendly workplaces, businesses can break this cycle. When women are supported through menopause, they can continue to excel, take on leadership roles, and help close the gender gap at senior levels. A workplace that helps women at all life stages is one that promotes gender equality—and that’s something to be proud of.

Menopause-friendly workplaces give you the edge

A menopause-friendly workplace isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a smart strategy for attracting and retaining talent. It signals that your company values diversity, well-being, and inclusivity. It keeps experienced employees engaged, loyal, and productive, while helping you stand out to top talent looking for a supportive environment.

Women over 50 are a crucial part of the workforce, menopause-friendly policies are essential. So, whether it’s flexible work arrangements, health resources, or simply fostering open conversations, supporting employees through menopause can help build a stronger, happier team—and ultimately, a more successful business.

Get in touch

Should you wish to have a confidential chat with Sam Pepperell to discuss the current HR market or your search for work/recruiting into your team, please contact her directly at spepperell@mdhr.co.uk

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