At Anglia Freight, supporting our people is central to who we are and how we work. Creating an environment where everyone feels understood, respected and able to perform at their best is key to building a strong, sustainable business.
As part of this commitment, we’re pleased to share that members of our team have completed specialist Menopause Champion training through the Online Menopause Centre and are now officially our in-house Menopause Champions.
This training represents a significant step forward in strengthening our wellbeing support and ensuring menopause is openly acknowledged and appropriately supported within the workplace.
Why Menopause Support matters
Menopause is a natural stage of life, yet it can still be misunderstood or overlooked at work. Symptoms can be both physical and emotional, and for many people, they can have a tangible impact on confidence, wellbeing, and day-to-day performance.
Internal discussions highlighted the challenges faced by employees experiencing menopause, particularly in demanding or senior roles, where expectations remain high despite the personal impact of symptoms. It was also recognised that relatively simple workplace adjustments — such as flexible working arrangements, remote options, temperature control or understanding conversations — can make a significant difference.
Creating space for open discussion and increasing awareness across leadership and teams help reduce stigma, build understanding, and support the retention of experienced, capable people.
The broader context: Why employers are taking action
The importance of menopause support is increasingly recognised at a national level.
From 2027, UK government plans will require organisations with 250 or more employees to have a mandatory Menopause Action Plan, following a voluntary adoption period beginning in April 2026. These plans are designed to help employers support staff through menopause, improve retention and foster more inclusive workplaces.
The data reinforces the need for action:
- A 2022 study by the Online Menopause Centre found that 6% of working women in the UK left their jobs due to menopause symptoms
- Research by the Fawcett Society and Channel 4 found that 1 in 10 women aged 45–55 had left work because of menopause symptoms
- Findings referenced by the CIPD and Bupa suggest that close to one million women have left employment over time due to a lack of menopause support
- A 2023 survey by Simplyhealth found that 23% of working women had considered leaving their job due to menopause or menstrual symptoms at work
These figures highlight why menopause support is not only a wellbeing issue, but a key factor in employee engagement, retention and inclusion.
What is a Menopause Champion?
A Menopause Champion plays a vital role in creating a supportive and inclusive workplace. They act as a point of contact for guidance, signposting and reassurance, helping to normalise conversations and improve understanding across the business.
Their role includes:
- Supporting open, respectful discussions about menopause
- Raising awareness among managers and colleagues
- Helping identify reasonable workplace adjustments where appropriate
- Reducing feelings of isolation and encouraging access to support
The focus is on empathy, understanding and practical support, rather than medical advice.
What this means for our team
As part of this initiative, Anglia Freight will be:
- Rolling out a Company Menopause Policy and Menopause Handbook to provide clear, accessible guidance
- Sharing posters, resources and links to trusted external support
- Encouraging open conversations across the business, supported by informed leadership
We also recognise that menopause can affect partners, families, and individuals. Support and resources will be available to anyone seeking guidance on understanding menopause better or supporting someone going through menopause.
Looking ahead
We aim to foster a workplace culture where menopause is understood, respected and managed with care — without stigma or silence.
By investing in training, strengthening communication and embedding supportive policies, Anglia Freight continues to take meaningful steps to support the wellbeing of its people, now and in the future.