Changes in college policy to improve menopause support in Scotland
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Scottish Colleges have launched a national menopause policy in a bid to improve the support offered to colleagues in Scotland.
The new policy has been adopted by all colleges in Scotland, including UHI North Highland, which have agreed to ensure dignity and respect for all, and to provide support for those experiencing the menopause.
Katrina Daly, of College Employers Scotland, said: “Going through the menopause is a totally different experience for everyone, but the level of dignity and support offered should be consistently high.
“This new policy is a huge step forward to a new approach into how we raise awareness of the challenges the menopause brings.
“We aim to create an environment in every college where women feel comfortable discussing issues they face, and confident that every effort will be made to support them.”
Grace Hepburn, women’s officer of the Unison Scotland Further Education Branch, produced the first draft of the policy. She said:“I’m extremely happy that colleges across Scotland are implementing this policy. We worked hard to ensure it reflects the individual needs of everyone who is impacted by menopause.
“Only by raising awareness of the challenges menopause brings – physical, mental and emotional – can we put in place the support structures people need.
“Feedback from staff has shown us that many felt unsupported through an incredibly difficult period in their lives.
“By ensuring every college is now focused on supporting those who need it most, we can create a more protective and caring working environment which is absolutely what our staff deserve.”
