Night Owl encourages sector to tackle menopause stigma

05-Jul-2022 - Last updated on 05-Jul-2022 at 11:40 GMT

Supportive working environment: Night Owl implements menopause policy to tackle stigma

Independent Birmingham and London-based nightclub the Night Owl has urged businesses across the UK to join its pledge in tackling stigma and prejudice in the workplace with regards to the menopause.

While there is no legal requirement for businesses to put policies in place to help employees experiencing menopause symptoms, Night Owl, renowned for its soul and retro music, has stated it is ensuring an inclusive and supportive working environment for all staff members as well as guiding staff to external support measures where required.

The nightclubs policy handbook states the company acknowledges the menopause affects individuals in different ways and encourages employees experiencing symptoms to speak to managers in order to ensure side effects are treated as an ongoing health issue rather than an individual instance of ill health.

Right thing to do

Burley Law, which provides services for Night Owl, HR Specialist Patricia Colden said: “The menopause is a natural part of every woman’s life.

“It isn’t always an easy transition and can be a significant issue in the workplace for those affected, each symptom has the potential to affect an employee’s comfort and performance at work.

“We know implementation of this policy is the right thing to do for the Night Owl’s current and future team members.”

Valuable employees

Symptoms related to menopause vary greatly, but commonly include hot flushes, night sweats, anxiety, dizziness, fatigue, memory loss, depression, mood swings, panic attacks, insomnia, headaches, reduced concentration, and heavy periods.

This comes as last month saw Night Owl speak out against drink spiking and violence against women in hospitality venues, citing schemes such as ‘Ask For Angela’ as essential in helping the sector uphold its safeguarding responsibilities.

Colden added: “Without these types of policies in place, businesses risk losing valuable employees whose maturity and experience are key to their teams and departments. They must act now.”