To consider the report relating to Menopause Support (CFO/53/24).

The Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Nick Searle presented the revised Menopause Policy to Members and highlighted the positive work undertaken by Merseyside Fire and Rescue Authority (MFRA) into supporting employees through the menopause.

Members were advised that a staff consultation exercise was undertaken in 2022 involving engagement with staff networks, the Menopause Lounge, and an internal staff survey. It was clarified that a crucial aspect of the initiative entailed the organisation of workshops and seminars conducted by MFRA’s Occupational Health team, which was noted as successfully completed.

It was noted that the Strategic Leadership Team (SLT) agreed that from 1st April 2022, all employees would be able to reclaim the costs of their Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) prescriptions as part of an interim range of measures, including promotion of existing guidance and the Menopause Lounge, which were designed to improve the range of support offered to menopausal staff.

Deputy Chief Fire Officer Nick Searle highlighted the Menopause Policy, which was approved by the Community Safety Protection Committee on 6th April 2023, focused on raising awareness. It was explained that Officers utilised the guidance from the Women and Equalities Committee to develop a wider package of proposals, to support menopausal women.

Deputy Chief Fire Officer Nick Searle drew attention to the development of the informative guidance and e-learning packages which would reach a broader audience, noting that two learning packages were near completion. After the initial policy’s approval, it was advised that self-guided risk assessments had been created to help women discuss and structure conversations with managers, colleagues, family, and doctors.

Members were advised that a trial period for female-only gym hours was currently being implemented three times a week at Service Headquarters. Members noted that on July 27th, 2024, a leading menopause consultant would conduct menopause champions training and that Liverpool would host the NFCC Menopause Conference on September 11 in the city centre.

Following the request to review the original Menopause Policy's language for inclusivity, Members noted that the policy had been revised to include comprehensive support details for staff. After consultations within MFRA’s Gender Network and a review of national guidelines, it was noted that the language had been updated per ACAS recommendations.

Councillor Grace wanted to place on record her thanks and appreciation for the extensive research undertaken to update the policy, and the time spent in discussions with partners and stakeholders, including ACAS.

Councillor Byrom enquired if Members could attend the NFCC Menopause conference, noting that costs shouldn't be an issue. Councillor Byrom praised the assistance offered by MFRA to individuals impacted by menopause, he also welcomed and encouraged suggestions from Members for further improving the policy.

RESOLVED that;

a)    the support offered to menopausal women and other people who have a menstrual cycle including specific guidance documents, the Menopause Lounge support network, and the ability for staff to reclaim Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) prescription costs be noted; and

b)    the updated Menopause Policy which includes additional supportive measures developed following consultation with staff be approved.