In recognition of the contributions made toward women’s health, especially during midlife, an inspiring breakfast panel event was held at Langan’s Brasserie in London, where various celebrities and businesses came together during World Menopause Month. The event, hosted by HELLO!, spotlighted the critical work being done to enhance awareness around menopause and its impact in the workplace. Notable figures such as broadcaster Mariella Frostrup, actress Glynis Barber, and TV presenter Cherry Healy took part in discussions aimed at fostering a supportive environment for women navigating this significant phase of life.
This gathering marked a continuation of HELLO!’s collaboration with the charity Wellbeing of Women, which has been instrumental in advocating for women’s health through groundbreaking research for over six decades. Their ongoing Menopause Workplace Pledge, introduced in 2021, has already made significant strides in raising awareness and facilitating resources for women, and this breakfast served as a platform to further explore those initiatives.
A crucial theme emerged during the breakfast: the structural challenges women face in the workforce. Mariella Frostrup eloquently articulated the issue, emphasizing that the working world has been predominantly designed around male career trajectories. “It’s high time we make adjustments,” she asserted, stressing that women, particularly those in their 40s and 50s, are often at the pinnacle of their professional capabilities. With substantial evidence suggesting that organizations that empower their female employees achieve greater financial success, ignoring this demographic appears to be an economic misstep.
Frostrup’s call to action also included a push for enhanced health checks for women over 40, advocating that menopause remains an unaddressed topic during these assessments. “It’s not just common sense; it’s essential for health and economic vitality,” she argued, reflecting a growing urgency for integrating menopause discussions into broader health frameworks.
The panel also featured insights from experts like Nadia Alibhai, a trained Osteopath who highlighted the importance of creating a supportive work environment that champions awareness of menopause. Alibhai’s organization, Back 2 Well-Being, has adopted practices that encourage mindfulness and collective breathing exercises among staff, fostering a calming atmosphere. These approaches indicate a shift toward holistic wellness in the workforce that encompasses mental, emotional, and physical health.
Another notable mention was Marks & Spencer’s Corporate Affairs Director Victoria McKenzie Gould, who spoke about how the retailer has developed menopause-friendly uniforms and a supportive network for their employees. This proactive stance emphasizes that organizations can adopt practical measures to address the needs of women going through menopause in a manner that can enhance productivity and well-being.
Global make-up artist Ruby Hammer also contributed valuable perspectives, suggesting that enhancing self-confidence through personal styling can significantly impact how women navigate their roles in both personal and professional contexts. “Dress for comfort with style,” she advised, underscoring the psychological benefits of feeling good about one’s appearance.
The sessions at this empowering breakfast emphasized open dialogue, a theme repeatedly echoed by the Changemakers. Janet Lindsay from Wellbeing of Women reflected on the remarkable impact of having over 3,000 organizations sign the Menopause Workplace Pledge, illustrating strong progress in the commitment to support women in the workplace. Lindsay’s excitement about extending these resources to small and medium-sized businesses demonstrates a strategic approach to addressing menopause, menstrual health, and other issues that uniquely affect women.
Michelle Griffith Robinson, a Lifestyle Coach and former Olympic athlete, passionately articulated the necessity of representation and communication. “Women need to voice their experiences and challenges,” she insisted, sharing her personal stories of navigating hormonal changes. Her enthusiasm for empowering women of color resonated with the audience, shedding light on the intersectionality of health experiences and the importance of diverse representation in discussions about menopause.
The conclusion of HELLO!’s Changemakers breakfast painted a hopeful picture for the future of women’s health in the workplace. While substantial progress has been made, the event underscored the ongoing need for advocacy, education, and systemic change to ensure women can thrive during menopause. Attendees left not only inspired by the panel’s contributions but equipped with actionable insights and encouragement to foster support within their respective environments.
By fostering open conversations around menopause, businesses can play a pivotal role in dismantling stigmas and creating a work culture that champions women at every stage of their lives. With persistent efforts and collaboration, the narrative surrounding women’s health in the workplace can evolve, ensuring that the experiences of all women are represented, validated, and supported.