Retail sector – advice and information
As a dynamic industry known for its fast-paced environment and customer-centric focus, navigating the challenges of menopause in this sector can be particularly demanding.
Here you can find resources and best practices from retail organisations, designed to empower employers in creating a more inclusive and supportive workplace environment.
Top tips
- Look at ways to cool the working environment, for example provide a fan or adjust the air conditioning.
- Provide easy access to cold drinking water and washrooms.
- Make sanitary products available in washrooms.
- Allow for more frequent breaks to go to the toilet or to take medication.
- Provide access to a rest room.
- Encourage employees to discuss concerns at one-to-one meetings with their manager or supervisor and/or HR or occupational health.
- Don’t make assumptions – everyone is different, so take your lead from the individual.
- Discuss possible adjustments to tasks and duties that are proving a challenge.
- Allow someone to move around or stay mobile, if that helps.
- Adapt uniforms for all workers to improve comfort –consider the material, colour and sizing.
- Make it easy to request extra uniforms if needed.
- Consider a change to shift patterns or the ability to swap shifts on a temporary basis. Offer a flexible working arrangement, for example a later start and finish time.
- Recognise someone may need to take short-term absence if they have difficult symptoms.
- Approach performance conversations supportively and positively.
- Take any health issues fully into account where there is underperformance on the part of an individual.
- Signpost to an employee assistance programme or counselling services if available.
- Provide information at work to raise awareness and support around menopause, for example through posters and leaflets, in staff areas.