Women are significantly more likely to remain with employers that actively support midlife health needs, according to new research from LiveCareer UK.
Its Midlife Divide Report found that 91% of women would be more likely to stay with an employer that provides meaningful menopause and midlife health support.
Flexible schedules were cited by 58% as the most impactful measure, followed by paid leave or mental health days at 56% and more women in leadership roles at 54%.
Jasmine Escalera, career expert at LiveCareer UK, said: “Menopause shouldn’t be a career limiter.
“When organisations normalise the conversation and provide meaningful support, they’re not just helping women, they’re protecting their leadership pipeline and building a stronger, more inclusive culture.”
Ongoing perceptions of bias
The research also highlights ongoing perceptions of bias.
A total of 68% of respondents said both gender and age influence how seriously their health concerns are taken at work, while 22% cited gender alone and 8% age alone. Only 2% believed neither factor played a role.
Nearly a quarter of women, 23%, said menopause remains misunderstood and insufficiently addressed in the workplace.
In the absence of formal support, many respondents said they are relying on personal coping strategies.
Some 58% seek therapy or mental health support, while the same proportion turn to exercise or nutrition changes.
More than half, 52%, use hormone replacement therapy or other medication, 40% rely on supplements or alternative medicine and 29% adjust their working hours.
Just 6% said they are not taking specific action, and fewer than 2% reported that symptoms have not affected their work.
Top 10 AM100 dealer group TrustFord is a recognised example in the UK’s automotive industry of having a leading diversity and inclusion strategy, investing resources to become a menopause-friendly employer.