World Menopause Day: national survey is launched

18 October 2023

Women and men across the police service are being urged to speak up about the menopause as part of a nationwide survey launched to coincide with World Menopause Day (18 October).

The ‘EveryonePause’ survey follows the success of the first Police Federation of England and Wales (PFEW) menopause survey in 2018.

Terasa Holden, equality lead for Hertfordshire Police Federation, wants as many people as possible to fill out the survey to give an accurate reflection of how the service is supporting those affected.

“I would urge everyone to take the time to take part,” says Terasa, “I appreciate everyone is really busy and there are so many demands on people’s time but engaging with this survey could really make a difference to how policing puts policies and measures in place to offer suitable support, and develop awareness and understanding.

“On the back of the last survey five years ago, the Federation helped develop the National Menopause Guidance and this is in place in all forces, so we do believe there have been improvements as a result, but we need hard evidence and this new survey will be a big help.” 

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.