UK employers are being encouraged to review their workplace washroom facilities following the introduction of Menopause Action Plans in April, and ahead of plans to make them mandatory for organisations with 250 or more employees from spring 2027.

The new legislation encourages businesses to outline the practical steps they are taking to support employees experiencing menopause and helping to create more inclusive and supportive workplaces for them.

This legislation comes as research highlights the impact menopause can have on women’s working lives. According to the Fawcett Society, one in ten women have left a job due to menopause symptoms, while a further 13% have considered leaving work altogether.

Meanwhile, research from the CIPD found that two-thirds (67%) of women aged 40-60 who experience menopause symptoms say it has had a mostly negative effect on them at work, while more than half (53%) have been unable to attend work at some point because of their symptoms.

Inter County Service Group Ltd is a leading provider of washroom services and workplace hygiene solutions and a member of the Independent Washroom Services Association (IWSA). The company says that while many organisations are improving awareness around menopause through policies and training, practical support within the workplace environment is often overlooked.

Symptoms such as hot flushes, heavier menstrual bleeding, gut issues and anxiety can all affect women during the working day, making access to clean, hygienic and well-maintained washroom facilities an important part of creating a supportive workplace.

Inter County is also encouraging employers to take a proactive approach to feminine hygiene provision, ensuring sanitary disposal bins are available in washrooms, providing access to period products, and maintaining clean and hygienic environments with effective handwashing and drying facilities. The company is also offering workplace washroom and hygiene reviews, helping organisations to identify opportunities to enhance employee wellbeing, improve hygiene standards and ensure ongoing compliance.

Lorna Nicholson, Managing Director at Inter County, said: “Businesses are increasingly recognising the importance of supporting staff through menopause, which is great news – particularly when research shows many women have considered leaving work because they can’t manage their symptoms in the workplace. While policies and awareness campaigns are important, businesses should also consider the more practical ways to support colleagues going through the menopause and Menopause Action Plans present a great opportunity to do this.

“We are working with organisations to review their existing washroom and hygiene provision and identify improvements that can better support staff. For many women experiencing menopause symptoms, access to clean, comfortable and well-equipped washroom facilities and sanitary bins can make a real difference during the working day. Employers don’t need large budgets to make meaningful improvements. Investing in workplace facilities is a practical step to start with that can really improve overall employee health and wellbeing.”

To find out more about Inter County Service Group, visit https://intercountyltd.co.uk.