Employers are being advised to review their support for women who experience issues in the workplace because of menopause, following a landmark court ruling.
Mandy Davies was sacked by the Scottish Courts and Tribunal Service (SCTS) following an incident that led to a health and safety investigation and subsequently to disciplinary measures.
An employment tribunal ruled in her favour, stating that her menopause was a disability, and awarding her in excess of £19,000 as well as her job being reinstated.
The ruling did not state that the menopause was a disability in itself, but that the symptoms may have physical and psychological effects that meet the definition of disability under the Equality Act (2010).
As a result, the tribunal ruled that it could have a substantial and long-term adverse effect on an individual’s ability to carry out daily activities.
The individual, in this case, suffered serious medical problems associated with the menopause, including heavy bleeding, memory loss, extreme tiredness and stress.
The number of women at work in their 50’s has risen significantly in recent years, with this landmark case expected to increase awareness of menopause in the workplace.
Harrow Health Care
At Harrow Health Care, we know that menopause management is always changing. Dr Jane Woyka is a GP and Menopause Specialist, who runs the London Menopause Clinic at Harrow Health Care Centre, as well as being a GP Associate Specialist at Northwick Park’s Clinical & Research Menopause Clinic one morning every week.
Jane’s approach is to assess individual risk and benefit according to each patient’s personal and family medical history in relation to their symptoms and quality of life.
For more information on our Menopause Care, contact us today.
