Federation launches survey to mark World Menopause Day

18 October 2023

All officers should take part in the second national menopause survey in a bid to help improve understanding and support.

That’s the view of West Mercia Police Federation chair Barry Horton.

“The Federation has jointly launched the ‘EveryonePause’ survey today (Wednesday 18 October) to mark World Menopause Day which aims to raise awareness and highlight the support available to improve health and wellbeing,” says Barry.

“I think we have come a long way, in society in general but also in policing, in terms of talking more openly about the menopause and developing the support people need but there is still more work to be done.

“I hope the results of this survey give a snapshot of how the police service is implementing policies that help those experiencing the menopause while also identifying best practice and also where improvements are needed.

“Please take the time to fill out the survey and share your views and experiences.”

National Federation women’s lead Hayley Aley, who is taking the lead with the survey, has also urged as many people as possible to take part in the online survey.

She 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.