Menopause Policy
Devon Chambers recognises the need to break the taboo around the menopause, and support any practitioners and clerks who are affected by it. Devon Chambers is committed to creating an atmosphere in which individuals feel they can ask for help.
Devon Chambers understands that the menopause affects everyone differently, and that support needs to be based on the needs of the individual.
Breaking the Taboo
Members and clerks will be provided with this policy, and the list of common experiences during menopause (found at the end of this document). Members and clerks are reminded that 50% of the population will experience the menopause during their lifetime, and the remainder are likely to be affected by loved ones experiencing it. Members and clerks should feel comfortable to discuss the menopause with their colleagues as they choose.
New members and clerks will be provided with this policy and encouraged to ask questions as they need.
Devon Chambers will positively consider any available training and additional refresher training, dependent on budget, availability, and need.
Support
Chambers aims to support practitioners and clerks in remaining productive and satisfied with their work.
Members or clerks who wish to discuss the menopause, generally or with regards to themselves, can speak to the Equality and Diversity Officer and/or the Head of Chambers and / or the Senior Clerk. This is not to discourage members or clerks from speaking to any other member or clerk about the menopause, but to provide a point of contact for those who want it.
Members or clerks who seek help will be treated with respect, and any information they disclose will remain confidential unless the member wishes otherwise.
Support will be tailored to the needs of the individual, including but not limited to:
- Altering the hours which an individual would normally be available to work
- Providing preparation days within the working week
- Reducing the area in which an individual will be expected to travel
- Ensuring flexibility for medical appointments
- Changes to the Chambers environment eg providing a desktop fan
- Chambers’ support if a practitioner is unable to appear in court/requires suitable adjustments in court
- Emotional support
If a member or clerk chooses, regular meetings can be arranged between themselves and the Equality and Diversity Officer/Head of Chambers/Senior Clerk to discuss the best support for them and any necessary changes. Such meetings can be formal or informal, depending on the wishes of the individual seeking them. Regular meetings will not prevent the member or clerk from being able to request an earlier meeting if they require.
Experiences which are Common During the Menopause
- Hot Flushes
- Sleep disruption
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Requiring more frequent access to toilet facilities
- Difficulty concentrating
- Memory problems
- Loss of confidence
- Anxiety, mood disturbances, and depression
- Bone and joint problems
