Warrington and Halton Teaching Hospitals awarded menopause accreditation

Warrington and Halton Teaching Hospitals (WHH) has been recognised for its commitment to creating a workplace that is supportive and inclusive of women experiencing menopause and perimenopause.

Almost 70 per cent of the WHH workforce is made up of women in mid-life, many of whom balance demanding roles with challenging menopause symptoms. 

The trust has been awarded the Menopause Friendly Accreditation, after introducing a range of practices and initiatives including menopause cafes – a supportive, confidential space for colleagues to openly chat and offer peer support – and menopause advocates, trained members of staff who are there to provide advice and guidance, as well as helping to normalise conversations about menopause in the workplace.   

Michelle Cloney, chief people officer at WHH, said: “This accreditation is a fantastic achievement and reflection of who we are as a trust. Menopause is a natural part of life and by opening up these conversations and offering the right health and wellbeing support, we are building a workplace that removes stigma and ensures everyone feels safe to bring their whole self to work.

“This is more than an accreditation – it’s about creating a culture where every colleague feels seen, supported and understood.”

The accreditation is a ‘best in class’ marker and differentiates employers that have demonstrated the positive impact of their actions in supporting people experiencing menopause.

The trust was assessed by an independent panel, demonstrating evidence and effectiveness across five key areas: culture, policies and practices, training, engagement and working environment.

Lucy Gardner, chief strategy and partnerships officer and women’s staff network executive lead at WHH, said: “I am delighted that we have received this accreditation and it is a fantastic example of the work we are doing to create a safe, supportive and inclusive environment for our staff. 

“This accreditation reflects our commitment to ensuring all staff feel valued and respected, and I am very proud of the work our women’s staff network have done to embed practices that support colleagues going through menopause or perimenopause within the trust.”

Deborah Garlick, chief executive of Menopause in the Workplace by Henpicked, added: “Warrington and Halton Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has created a visibly supported, strategically led menopause-friendly culture that truly makes a difference. This is meaningful, embedded change – driven by strong leadership, genuine collaboration and safe spaces for open conversation. They should be incredibly proud of the thoughtful, inclusive and impactful work they have achieved.”

The Menopause Friendly Accreditation was established by Henpicked: Menopause In The Workplace in 2021 to certify high standards and proven practices that embrace menopause in the workplace. To find out more about the Menopause Friendly Accreditation, visit www.menopausefriendly.co.uk.