Menopause survey: members reminded to take part

16 November 2023

The equality lead for Hertfordshire Police Federation is reminding members that by taking part in the menopause survey they can help ensure the correct support is in place for those affected.

Members have a short amount of time left to fill out the survey, with Terasa Holden urging as many officers as possible to participate and have their say.

The ‘EveryonePause’ survey was launched on 18 October and will run for six weeks. It follows the success of the first Police Federation of England and Wales (PFEW) menopause survey in 2018.

“I hope that as many members as possible take part in the survey, both men and women,” said Terasa.

“I appreciate time is limited but these surveys are essential in helping to shape the future of policing. The results can make a huge difference to the policies and measures put in place to ensure not only the correct support is in given but also to improve awareness and understanding of menopause across the Force.”

Following the previous survey five years ago, the Federation helped develop the National Menopause Guidance, which is now in place across all forces.

“You can see from the last survey what an impact these results can have,” Terasa added.

“Improvements have already been made but we still have a long way to go.”

Women’s lead Hayley Aley, who is leading on the survey for the Federation, said: “Across PFEW, women representatives have reported that there is improvement since the first survey findings and the progress forces have made to support officers and staff are welcomed. However, the picture varies from force to force and we now want to see what still needs to be done to support all at this difficult time in their lives.

“We are all working longer hours and in differing roles, and this transition can have a huge effect and impact greatly on capabilities within the workplace. To support organisations in realising the scope and scale of issues around the menopause, we are asking officers, staff and line managers for their support with this survey. It’s not solely about personal experiences, we also want to understand the awareness of line managers and senior leaders around this subject and what training is in place. It is anticipated that the findings of the second survey will help with the education, standardisation, understanding and right support for all.

“Senior leaders have a responsibility for the welfare and wellbeing of their workforce, and to support individuals appropriately when they need it. The purpose of this survey is to give us the evidence we can provide to leaders to action what needs to change, to praise those that are getting it right, to share some good practice and to ensure forces provide the right support and guidance to all. This will ultimately give confidence to individuals that when it is their turn to face this transition, if needed, appropriate support and adjustments can be identified and made available.”

The survey, which goes live today and is open for six weeks, is a joint project being conducted by researchers at the Police Federation of England and Wales (PFEW), and on behalf of PFEW, UNISON, the Police Superintendents' Association, the National Police Chiefs' Council, the Police Service of Northern Ireland and the Civil Nuclear Constabulary.

Take part in the survey.