Menopause network group

The Menopause Network at AtkinsRéalis  has over 700 members and supports our staff through what can be a very emotionally and physically challenging time. As well as providing opportunities to share experiences, offering support through difficult times and signposting valuable sources of help and information, we are driving change across the business by raising awareness and providing education for all with the ultimate aim of improving retention and supporting equality in the workplace. 

We are proud to be the first engineering consultancy in the UK to achieve Menopause Friendly Accreditation, awarded by Henpicked in 2023.

Why supporting menopause is important

Menopause symptoms tend to occur between 40-60 years old and 3 out of 4 women will experience symptoms, with a quarter describing them as 'serious'.

Today, menopausal women are the fastest-growing demographic in the workforce; but it's suggested 1 in 10 leave due to menopause. This has a significant impact on individuals and their careers but also on employers when talented, experienced talent is lost. It's an issue we have identified ourselves; the AtkinsRéalis UK Gender Pay Gap report reveals only 20% of women are in the upper pay quartile, compared to nearly 40% in the lower.

Change needs to happen, and we want to be at the forefront. The Government are intending to make Menopause Action Plans mandatory for all companies with over 250 staff, and there have already been successful employment tribunals against employers.

We have over 3000 female employees in the UK, and 28% of them are around menopausal age. To aid retention and ensure our female employees have the support they need to achieve their career goals, this group exists to increase understanding and take action.

Different makes a difference

Everything the Menopause Network does is aligned with our global ED&I program - Different Makes a Difference. 

Alongside other employee resource groups including Empower, our staff network encouraging a gender-balanced, inclusive workplace where all employees can flourish, and Embrace, our group which seeks to better understand and help solve the challenges affecting ethnic minority employees,  we can offer support through an intersectional approach that recognizes and addresses the interconnected nature of these identities.