Case Study 4

Case Study 4: Brighton & Hove City Council – Menopause@Work Programme

• Initiated: 2019 – Pilot closed in 2025 (ongoing local support continues)
• Provider: Brighton & Hove City Council
• Target Group: Council employees and local SMEs, especially individuals experiencing perimenopause and menopause
• Goal: To reduce stigma, raise awareness, and improve workplace support through policy, training, and culture change, ultimately enhancing wellbeing, retention, and productivity.
  Key Actions
• Conducted surveys, focus groups, and direct feedback to assess gaps in menopause support
• Co-created menopause policy and toolkit with staff and union input
• Delivered CPD-accredited training, Menopause Cafes, webinars, and educational resources
• Established peer networks and signposted local support options
• Ran manager workshops to build confidence in making reasonable adjustments
• Promoted the programme across SMEs and public sector partners
  Impact
• 94% reported increased confidence in discussing menopause
• 93% of workplaces gained better understanding of support needs
• 89% intended to take action (e.g. policies, adjustments)
• Programme recognised by Business in the Community as best practice
• Cultural change reported in testimonials, though long-term tracking remains limited
  Lesson Learned
• Co-production and visible leadership are essential for buy-in
• Menopause Cafes and accredited training foster open dialogue
• Ongoing investment needed to sustain impact
• Shift workers and non-desk staff require more tailored solutions
  Success Factors
• Commitment from leadership, unions, and health teams
• Peer support and local partnership involvement
• Integration with EDI and wellbeing strategies
• CPD-accredited materials and replicable toolkit
  Sustainability
• Menopause@Work principles embedded into council wellbeing frameworks
• Ongoing peer activities and external knowledge-sharing with SMEs
• Adaptation based on staff feedback and practical constraints
• Legacy impact continues despite pilot programme closure