Take part in menopause survey

18 October 2023

Taking part in the latest nationwide menopause survey could ensure that forces provide the right support and guidance in the future, according to Suffolk Police Federation’s health and safety lead.

Helen Self, who has spoken about her own menopause, wants people to be as open as they can in the survey and share their own experiences.

“I would really like to see as many people as possible take part in the survey so that we can get an accurate view of the support that is being provided, how those going through the menopause feel the service is helping and perhaps how line managers are responding to their needs,” says Helen.

“I know from my own experiences that working as a police officer while experiencing symptoms of the menopause can be extremely difficult but equally I was really grateful for the support network I had around me and I know that is not always the case.”

The ‘EveryonePause’ survey is launched today (Wednesday 18 October) to coincide with World Menopause Day. It is hoping to build on the success of the first national Federation menopause survey, which was carried out five years ago and was used to help develop National Menopause Guidance which is in place across all forces.

National Federation women’s lead Hayley Aley, who is taking the lead with the survey, explained: “Across the Federation, 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.”

She added: “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.”

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.

READ MORE: Fed's health and safety lead opens up about experiencing early menopause