Supporting Menopause and Menstrual Health Week - UB NI & ROI - UB 11/25

We are writing to inform you about a series of activities your employer is organising for the upcoming Menopause and Menstrual Health Week, 13 – 17 October. This is a significant step by the Bank in counteracting the stigma associated with menopause and periods. FSU extends a warm thanks to NatWest Group for their proactive efforts in highlighting these important issues in the workplace. FSU outlined its #StopTheStigma campaign to Senior Management at the Bank in 2024 and has been discussing with the Bank over the last 12 months various initiatives to improve the working lives of those who menstruate or are suffering through debilitating side effects from menopause or period related illness. The Bank has been listening to your Union’s campaign and taking important steps to ensure the stigma associated with both can be eliminated.

These initiatives for Menopause and Menstrual Health week directly reflect some of the core goals of FSU’s #StopTheStigma campaign, which works to break the silence around periods and menopause at work and advocates for supportive workplace policies.

Overview of Planned Activities

The following events have been arranged by your employer to educate, support, and create an open dialogue. FSU encourages all members to participate.

Monday 13 October, 11am

Menstruation, Menopause and Common Menstrual Health Conditions: such as, endometriosis, PCOS, PMDD. ‘Stigma free conversation.’

Tuesday 14 October, 11am

The Power of Your Cycle: From hindrance to superpowers; experts and staff share experiences and how the workplace can better support cycle-aware wellbeing.

Wednesday 15 October, 10am

Menstrual Health at work: Understand conditions, seeking support and engaging male allies. Open talk about menstrual health.

Also, later in the month: Tuesday 30 October, 10am

Educational Webinar / Menopause in the Workplace with Anna Fullerton: specialist in career transitioning from maternity to menopause; navigating the evolving landscape of work and wellbeing during menopause.

For the list of speakers at each event and to register, visit the wellbeing calendar on the wellbeing hub.

This week is a welcome action by the Bank; your Union will continue to engage on persistent advocacy of our #StopTheStigma campaign. Survey data from our FSU menstrual health survey revealed that 91% believe menstrual health effects their working lives, highlighting the critical need for employers to take action. By working together, your union and employer can make tangible progress in creating a more comfortable and inclusive workplace for everyone.

Let’s continue to build on this momentum. Your participation in these events is crucial to their success and to showing collective support for these important issues.

If you have any questions, please contact your Sector Committee; details below:

Sector Committee

Mandy La Combre

Senior Industrial Relations Officer