An analysis of Tribunal claims by Menopause Experts Group submitted in 2021 show that 23 cases referenced the menopause in 2021. In 2020 it was mentioned in 16 cases, an increase of 44%.
Of the 23 cases, 16 of them asserted claims of disability discrimination, 14 claimed unfair dismissal and 10 included claims for sex discrimination.
In addition, last year the word menopause was mentioned 207 times in Tribunal documents, 75% more than 2020.
There continues to be growing media coverage of the menopause and its effect on working women and it is expected that Tribunal claims will continue to increase as menopause becomes more widely spoken about and much less of a taboo topic.
Employers should ensure that managers are trained to recognise signs and symptoms of the menopause and understand its side effects and ensure that women are properly supported at work whilst they are experiencing the menopause, which will greatly reduce the risk of Tribunal claims being pursued. It is also highly recommended to have a Menopause Policy in place so employees are aware of their rights at work, your commitment to them and any help or support that might be available.
For further advice about menopause and how best to support your staff, training your managers or if you would like to introduce a menopause policy, please contact a member of the Employment Team on 0345 646 0406 or fill in our online enquiry form and a member of our Team will be in touch.