October is Menopause Awareness Month
October is Menopause Awareness Month, an annual campaign that aims to increase understanding of menopause, challenge stigma and encourage open conversations about the support available to those experiencing menopausal symptoms. World Menopause Day takes place on 18th October each year.
For schools and trusts, Menopause Awareness Month provides an opportunity to reflect on how well staff are supported and how workplace culture can help people thrive during every stage of their career.
Why menopause matters in the workplace
Menopause is a natural stage of life that affects everyone differently. Some people experience relatively few symptoms, while others may experience significant physical and emotional effects that can impact their daily lives and work.
Common symptoms may include:
- hot flushes and night sweats;
- disturbed sleep and fatigue;
- anxiety or low mood;
- difficulties with concentration and memory;
- joint and muscle aches; and
- changes in confidence and wellbeing.
In busy school and trust environments, where staff are balancing teaching, leadership, administration and pupil support responsibilities, these symptoms can sometimes become particularly challenging.
Creating a supportive workplace can help staff feel understood, valued and able to continue performing at their best.
The focus for 2026: Chronic Pain at Midlife
This year's World Menopause Day theme, chosen by the International Menopause Society, is "Chronic Pain at Midlife". The Society highlights that chronic pain affects many women during and after the menopause transition but is often overlooked or underestimated.
Chronic pain can affect sleep, concentration, energy levels, mental wellbeing and day-to-day activities. It may also impact someone's experience at work.
The campaign encourages greater awareness and understanding, helping people recognise that menopause experiences vary considerably and that support should reflect individual needs.
Small lifestyle changes can help
Alongside the awareness campaign, Macmillan Cancer Support is highlighting the role of Lifestyle Medicine, focusing on how everyday choices may help people manage menopausal symptoms and support overall wellbeing.
Some simple measures that may help include:
Regular physical activity, even gentle exercise such as walking, can help improve mood, support sleep and maintain bone strength.
Maintaining a regular bedtime routine and creating a comfortable sleeping environment may help improve sleep quality.
Some people find mindfulness, breathing exercises, yoga and other relaxation techniques beneficial for managing stress and anxiety.
- Making time for self-care
Taking time to rest, pursue interests and maintain social connections can support emotional wellbeing and resilience.
How can schools and trusts provide support?
Menopause support does not need to involve complex programmes or costly interventions. Often, the most meaningful support comes from creating an environment where conversations can take place openly and respectfully.
Schools and trusts may wish to consider:
- ensuring managers understand the potential impact of menopause;
- encouraging supportive and sensitive conversations;
- making staff aware of wellbeing resources and support services;
- considering workplace adjustments where appropriate;
- promoting healthy lifestyles and wellbeing initiatives; and
- fostering a culture where colleagues feel comfortable seeking support when they need it.
An opportunity to start the conversation
Menopause Awareness Month is ultimately about understanding, awareness and support.
For schools and trusts, it provides a valuable opportunity to promote wellbeing, reduce stigma and ensure colleagues feel able to talk openly about issues that may affect their health and working lives.
A supportive conversation, greater awareness and a workplace culture built on understanding can make a significant difference to the experience of staff navigating menopause and its effects.
