Menopause meetups provide support to local women

Since 2009, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has designated October as World Menopause Month, but year-round, one local home care company and employer is lifting the taboo regarding menopause. By hosting monthly meetups for their team members, Home Instead aim to encourage women to talk about their own experiences, enable them to support each other, and discuss how workplaces can be more accommodating.

Classed as an officially 5 Star Employer in Care, many of Home Instead Exeter & East Devon’s workforce are women aged 36-65, making the company keen to open a dialogue about the challenges that the menopause can present. They have seen an overwhelming success at their meetups, with dozens of local women reaping the benefits of a positive place to share support and advice.

A tailor-made, Home Instead Menopause Guidance booklet was distributed to company care professionals and the office support team, as well as their family and friends, providing information not just to those going through the menopause but those close to them too.

Vanessa McGlade, owner of Home Instead Exeter and East Devon, said “My personal experience with the menopause makes me feel passionate about creating a place where people feel comfortable to ask questions and gain reassurance. It’s important to me to help make our company and wider community a place where women can feel supported and gain reliable information about menopause easily.

“I am delighted to work with local support groups such as Womenkind Collective, who host menopause cafes in the area. Together we can create a community that has a whole network of support surrounding what was once a taboo topic. 

“I am thrilled to be able to provide support for every one of our team members, and particularly those going through the menopause, as they progress their care careers with us.”

Home Instead is an officially ‘outstanding in all areas’ home care provider (as rated by the Care Quality Commission) and 5 Star Employer in care. The company offers a host of opportunities for those wanting to embark on a local, rewarding career in care, for those with previous experience and equally those new to the sector.

For more information on the services provided, or to find out about joining their officially 5 Star team, please call 01395 200 600 or visit homeinstead.co.uk/exeter-east-devon.