The House of Commons Women and Equalities Committee published the government’s response to the menopause and the workplace report published on 28 July 2022.
The response notes that the government has already committed to make the right to request flexible working a day-one right for all employees and accepts some of the Committee’s recommendations in principle, including the proposed appointment of a Menopause Ambassador, the launch of a menopause public health campaign and teaching in schools. Other recommendations are accepted in part, including in relation to the production of guidance by the Health and Safety Executive.
However, the response rejects a number of recommendations made by the Committee, including that the government should:
- in consultation with the Menopause Ambassador, produce model menopause policies to assist employers.
- work with a large public sector employer with a strong public profile to develop and pilot a specific ‘menopause leave’ policy.
- immediately commence section 14 of the Equality Act 2010; and
- consult on making menopause a protected characteristic under the Equality Act 2010.
In response, the Committee notes concerns that the government has ignored a significant evidence base for equality law reform and calls on the government to review its position. The Committee also highlights the low cost but high impact opportunities for model workplace menopause policies and menopause leave, which the government has dismissed.
This provides summary information and comment on the subject areas covered. Where employment tribunal and appellate court cases are reported, the information does not set out all of the facts, the legal arguments presented and the judgments made in every aspect of the case. Employment law is subject to constant change either by statute or by interpretation by the courts. While every care has been taken in compiling this information, we cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions. Specialist legal advice must be taken on any legal issues that may arise before embarking upon any formal course of action.
