Menopause survey reminder: members urged to take part

17 November 2023

West Midlands Police Federation members are being reminded to take part in the national menopause survey.

Deputy chair and wellbeing lead Jase Dooley says that it is vital for as many members - both men and women - to take part as possible in the ‘EveryonePause’ survey before it closes.

It has been launched by the Police Federation of England and Wales (PFEW) following the success of its first survey in 2018, which helped to develop the National Menopause Guidance that is now in place across all forces.

“While it’s mainly women in their mid to late 40s and 50s that the menopause can impact, it’s essential that everyone - not just those who are experiencing symptoms - takes part. Everyone’s views are equally as important,” said Jase, who explained that the more people that complete the survey, the better.

“The more people that take part, the more accurate the results will be. The Federation will then use these results to help improve and develop policies, while raising awareness across the Force.”

National Federation women’s lead Hayley Aley, who is taking the lead with the survey, said that since the first survey, improvements have been reported by women representatives, with the additional support now being offered to staff and officers 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.

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.