AQW 14350/22-27

Ms Claire Sugden
Independent
East Londonderry

Tabled Date: 03/09/2024
Answered On Date: 11/09/2024
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) the steps being taken to increase awareness and support for menopause in the workplace; and (ii) how these efforts can be integrated into broader workplace health and well-being good practice.

Answer:

Women going through the menopause can experience challenges within the workplace when experiencing symptoms of menopause which require the support, understanding and compassion of their employers. It is important therefore that employers are aware of their duty of care to their employees under health and safety law and the need to make reasonable adjustments to help employees managing their symptoms when performing their job.

To increase awareness and support for employers and their employees, the Labour Relations Agency, the Equality Commission and the Irish Congress of Trade Unions published a guide entitled Promoting Equality in Employment for Women Affected by Menopause. All employers are recommended to consider this guide when developing their own workplace health and well-being policies. Further guidance and support are available to employers and employees through the NI Direct and NIBusiness Info websites.

In addition, good employers will have flexible supportive working policies in place such as homeworking, flexible hours, or compassionate leave. I would encourage all employers to offer enhanced flexible and supportive working arrangements for their staff experiencing symptoms of menopause. Proposals to further strengthen the right to request flexible working though a future Employment Rights Bill are subject to a live consultation.