Menopause Policy¶

Life presents challenges for everyone at different times. Going through menopause or perimenopause can create challenges for wellbeing, routine, working life and personal life. FooEngine aims to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and ensure employees affected by menopause feel supported, understood and able to communicate openly.

What is Menopause?¶

Menopause is a natural stage of life that all women will experience, and it can also affect trans and non-binary people who may not identify as female.

There is no set age at which menopause begins. Most people experience menopause between the ages of 45 and 55, though symptoms may begin earlier.

The term menopause in this policy also includes perimenopause — the period leading up to menopause — which may involve similar symptoms over several years.

Symptoms¶

Every experience of menopause is different. Common symptoms may include:

Hot flushes
Sleep disruption
Fatigue
Memory loss or reduced concentration
Headaches
Joint or muscle pain
Anxiety or low mood

If you are experiencing symptoms that affect your work or wellbeing, you are encouraged to speak with your line manager so that support can be considered.

Open Conversations¶

FooEngine encourages open and respectful conversations about menopause. Any discussions will be handled sensitively and confidentially.

Employees may choose to speak with:

Their line manager
Senior management

No employee will be treated unfavourably for raising menopause-related concerns.

Support and Adjustments¶

If menopause symptoms impact your ability to work, reasonable adjustments may be considered. These could include, for example:

Temporary or permanent changes to working hours
Flexible scheduling
Adjusted responsibilities
Additional breaks
Short-term workload adjustments

Requests will be discussed sensitively and handled on an individual basis, balancing employee wellbeing and business needs.

If you need to take time off due to menopause-related symptoms:

Please notify your line manager in line with the Sickness & Return to Work Policy.
You are encouraged (though not required) to indicate if absence is menopause-related so it can be managed and supported appropriately.

All information will be treated confidentially.

Medical Support¶

Where appropriate, and with your consent, the Company may request an occupational health or medical assessment to better understand how to support you. Any report produced will be shared with the Company and discussed only with relevant management and advisers.

Additional Support¶

FooEngine recognises that discussing menopause can feel difficult. When you are ready to talk, we will listen and aim to help.

Employees may also refer to the Mental Health & Wellness Policy for further support options.

No Discrimination¶

Employees experiencing menopause or perimenopause will not be subject to discrimination, harassment or unfair treatment. Any inappropriate behaviour will be addressed under the Dignity & Respect at Work Policy.