Menopause at Work – Legal Support UK
Over 4,000 five-star reviews speak to our expertise in employment law and supporting employees nationwide. Menopause at work is often overlooked, but symptoms can significantly impact your job, wellbeing, and career progression. If you’re experiencing menopause-related issues at work, we can guide you through your rights and help secure fair treatment.
Winston Solicitors helped me understand my rights and implement changes at work - I finally feel supported
Leeds
Understanding Menopause at Work
Menopause symptoms go far beyond hot flushes and can include:
- Anxiety, mood changes, and poor concentration
- Night sweats and sleep difficulties
- Tiredness and memory lapses
- Changes in skin, hair, and metabolism
These symptoms can affect work performance and relationships. Employers have a duty to support staff experiencing menopause, and failure to do so can amount to discrimination under age, sex or disability protections.
Legal Cases Highlighting Menopause at Work
- Lynskey v Direct Line Insurance Services Ltd [ET/1802204/2022 & ET/1802386/2022] - Employee was subjected to a disciplinary process and had her pay rise withdrawn after her performance declined due to "brain fog" and concentration issues caused by the menopause; awarding over £64,000.
- McCabe v Selazar [ET/2200501/2021] - Employee dismissed with discriminatory comments; awarded £20,000 plus interest.
- A v Bonmarche Ltd [ETS/4107766/19] - Employee resigned after lack of support for phased return; awarded £18,000.
- Best v Embark on Raw Ltd [ET/3202006/2020] - Harassment and comments on menopause led to successful age and sex discrimination claim.
These cases show the legal recognition of menopause impacts and the potential for injury to feelings compensation.
How Employers Can Support Menopause at Work
Step-by-Step Guidance
- Develop a menopause policy - Outline support measures clearly for all staff.
- Encourage open conversations - Allow employees to discuss symptoms without stigma.
- Undertake risk assessments - Adjust workspaces and tasks to reduce discomfort.
- Implement reasonable adjustments - Examples: desk fans, flexible working, dress code tweaks.
- Monitor and review support - Ensure policies remain effective and accessible nationwide.
Your Rights as an Employee
You have the right to:
- Protection from discrimination based on age, sex, or disability
- Request reasonable adjustments for menopause symptoms
- Raise grievances without fear of detriment
- Seek legal advice and support to enforce your rights
Speak to Our Employment Solicitors
Our team can advise on menopause support at work, discrimination claims, or implementing workplace adjustments. We handle cases across the UK and provide clear, practical guidance.
Call an employment law expert on 0113 320 5000, or email employment@winstonsolicitors.co.uk.
Discrimination can include unfair treatment, harassment, or dismissal linked to menopause symptoms, often covered under age, sex, or disability protections.
Yes. Employers must consider reasonable adjustments like flexible hours, working from home, or environmental changes such as desk fans.
Yes. Dismissal linked to menopause may be unlawful if it amounts to age, sex, or disability discrimination or breaches employment rights.
We can advise, represent, and negotiate on your behalf, including claims for injury to feelings or guidance on reasonable adjustments across the UK.
Not automatically, but severe symptoms may qualify. Even if not a disability, discrimination protections for age or sex may still apply.
Absolutely. Raising a grievance formally can help document issues and trigger employer action to provide support.
Yes. Cases like Lynskey v Direct Line Insurance Services Ltd, McCabe v Selazar, A v Bonmarche, and Best v Embark show employees receiving compensation for injury to feelings and unfair treatment linked to menopause.
