New College Durham (NCD) has achieved prestigious Menopause Friendly Accreditation. Joining institutions such as Santander, Boots and BAE Systems.
The college has received national recognition for its commitment to creating a workplace where colleagues experiencing menopause feel supported, understood, and able to continue to thrive in their careers.
A recent survey of 2,000 UK working women aged 40-65 conducted by Beneden Health*, found almost half have had to change the way they work to cope. The measures they have taken include reducing hours, cutting responsibilities, or turning down promotions and training opportunities. The research also revealed the devastating toll menopause is taking on women’s careers, with almost a third saying they are considering leaving their job because of symptoms, and nearly one in ten have already quit.
The Menopause Friendly Accreditation, is the industry-recognised mark of excellence for menopause support in the workplace. It recognises organisations that demonstrate a comprehensive and sustained approach to supporting employees through the menopause transition (perimenopause).
For NCD, whose workforce is almost two-thirds female, the achievement is about more than gaining an accreditation. It represents a commitment to changing workplace culture, ensuring menopause can be discussed openly, without embarrassment or stigma, and that staff feel confident seeking support when they need it.
Karen Milne, Head of Training, Development and Access Fund at New College Durham, said: “Achieving Menopause Friendly Accreditation is a fantastic milestone for New College Durham, but we see it very much as the beginning of our journey.
“We want our colleagues to know that they can talk about menopause openly, be listened to and access the support they need. Nobody should feel that they have to struggle in silence or choose between looking after themselves or continuing a career they have worked hard to build.
“Menopause is a normal part of life, but the experience can be hugely different for everyone so creating an open and understanding culture is therefore incredibly important. We also want our male colleagues to feel confident having conversations about menopause and understand how they can support colleagues, friends, and family members.
“This accreditation gives us a solid foundation, but there is so much more to do. We will continue listening to our staff, learning from their experiences, and developing our support so that talking about menopause becomes an ordinary part of workplace life.”
The college is building a programme of practical support which includes menopause-in-the-workplace training, e-learning, and training videos, masterclasses, and workplace events. A Menopause Action Plan Toolkit will support the college’s continuing development, while specific awareness training for male colleagues will help ensure that understanding and support extends across the whole workforce.
The college will continue to review and develop its approach, with staff feedback and lived experience helping to shape future initiatives and support.
For NCD, becoming menopause friendly is not simply about achieving a recognised standard, it is about creating a workplace where people feel valued, heard and supported at every stage of their working lives.