Menopause Advocates launched to support Trust staff

To further enhance staff wellbeing, our Trust has introduced a new initiative to provide dedicated support for staff experiencing menopause. Launch of the Menopause Collective is a continuation of menopause support within the Trust to support managers and staff - comprising of ten menopause advocates located across the Trust sites. Collectively, raising awareness and understanding of the menopause.

The Menopause Advocates help the Trust foster a supportive and inclusive workplace where all employees can thrive, even during life’s most challenging transitions.

Menopause Advocates are specially designated team members who will offer guidance, understanding, and practical support to colleagues navigating menopause-related challenges. They include a range of staff representatives, including male advocates as the Trust identifies that it is not just women who are directly affected by the menopause, it also impacts on their families and co-workers.

The Menopause Advocates are thoroughly trained by esteemed training provider Henpicked to learn how to navigate and support each staff members unique journey with menopause. With 10 Advocates available to staff, they can choose the most suitable person to reach out to for their needs.

Karen Phillips, Associate Director of People & OD said, “At Humber, we understand that menopause can significantly impact both personal and professional lives. By introducing Menopause Advocates as part of the wider Menopause Collective, we’re demonstrating our dedication to creating a compassionate and supportive workplace. We want our staff to feel valued and empowered, no matter what challenges they face.”

Alison Meads, Head of People Experience and one of the Menopause Advocates at the Trust said, “Our people are our most important asset, supporting them to deliver quality and effective care to patients is our top priority. The Menopause Collective is our way of supporting people through this journey.”

This initiative builds on the Trust’s broader commitment to staff wellbeing, ensuring employees are equipped to excel in their roles while feeling supported in every aspect of their lives. The focus on staff wellness is consistently upheld across the Trust, including initiatives like 14 Days to a Humbelievable You which delivered a two-week campaign of wellness activities and sessions for staff to engage with throughout January. They have also introduced a package of benefits for all staff including enhanced leave and flexible working opportunities to support a positive work-life balance.

By addressing menopause openly and proactively, we are continuing to lead the way in workplace inclusivity and staff care. The initiative means that the Trust stands apart from other local employers as a place where staff are supported through life challenges so that those challenges can feel less of a worry.