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This petition was submitted during the 2019 to 2024 Parliament

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Closed Amend the Equalities Act 2010 to include menopause as a protected characteristic

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To help keep more women in the workplace for longer and to improve their rights I want the Government to add menopause to the Equalities Act 2010 as a protected characteristic, and require employers to make reasonable adjustments for menopausal women.

With the population of women being 51%, instead of women leaving their profession or organisation due to ignorance, out of date policies and unequal law, skilled and experienced women should be protected.

It is right for employers to make reasonable adjustments for the menopause in addition to their pregnancy and maternity needs. Research by BUPA shows that a significant number of women leave their employment early due to their symptoms and experiences of the menopause.

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  • Related activity

    MPs debate a motion on Menopause

    On Thursday 26 October, Peter Dowd MP opened a debate in Parliament on menopause. During the debate, MPs discussed the challenges of menopause, raising awareness among medical professionals and access to treatment.

    What are backbench business debates?

    Backbench business debates give backbenchers (MPs who aren’t ministers or shadow ministers) an opportunity to secure a debate on a topic of their choice, either in the Chamber or Westminster Hall.

    MPs can make a request for a debate to the Backbench Business Committee, who hears and decides which debates to schedule.

    Backbench debates can either be general debates (which do not end in a vote) or be on a substantive motion (which calls for an action and can end in a vote). This debate was a general debate.

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    This petition will stay open until 19 February 2023.