Employers urged to publish menopause ‘action plans’ from April

From April 2026, organisations with 250 or more employees are urged to transparently report the steps they are taking to support staff.

While currently voluntary, these action plans are expected to become mandatory from spring 2027, subject to secondary legislation under the Employment Rights Act.

Menopause affects millions of women at the height of their careers. Image: iStock

A collaborative transition

The government confirmed that it will work ‘hand-in-hand’ with businesses to “share best practice and motivate others to follow their lead voluntarily” before any mandate happens. 

BT, which hosted the launch of the government's independent menopause advisory group last year in April, welcomed announcement. 

Director of talent, culture & capability, Hana Searson, said: “Targeted, employer led action can make a real difference – not just to women’s experiences at work, but to engagement, retention and long term performance for organisations. Supporting women to thrive through key life stages ensures talent isn’t lost and potential isn’t wasted.”

New guides 

Timed with International Women’s Day, a series of guides were issued on 4 March to assist employers with compliance. Key resources include:

•    What to put in an action plan
•    Menopause risk assessments - and to ensure managers are equipped to have supportive conversations about what these might entail 
•    Workplace adjustments: Practical examples such as flexible working hours, private rest areas, and ergonomic furniture.

Employers should ensure that managers know how to have supportive conversations and should respond to requests for adjustments as soon as possible – the guidance suggests to “consider setting an expected timeline for your organisation, such as 10 working days.”

The government's menopause employment ambassador, Mariella Frostrup, added: “Menopause affects millions of women at the height of their careers; which is detrimental to the economy, businesses and the talented women.

“When employers take practical, meaningful steps to support women through menopause, they are not just doing the right thing – they are protecting their own workforce.”

Read the announcement here