- Conference
- 2025 National Black Members' Conference
- Date
- 7 September 2024
- Decision
- Carried
Conference, menopause is a significant life stage that affects all women. However, research shows that Black women often experience menopause differently and more severely than their white counterparts. Unique challenges, such as earlier onset, more intense symptoms, and the compounded impact of systemic racism and socioeconomic factors, highlight the need for targeted support and interventions. Additionally, many Black women do not feel confident discussing the impact of menopause on their wellbeing with employers or line managers.
The key points below illustrate the impact of menopause on Black women:
1)Earlier Onset and Severe Symptoms: Studies indicate that Black women tend to enter menopause earlier and experience more severe symptoms, such as hot flashes, night sweats, and depression. These symptoms can significantly affect their quality of life and work performance.
Healthcare Disparities:
a)Black women often face healthcare disparities, including misdiagnosis, under-treatment, and a lack of culturally competent care. These disparities worsen the challenges of managing menopause effectively.
b) Socioeconomic Factors:
Menopause intersects with socioeconomic issues, such as income inequality, job insecurity, and limited access to healthcare resources, further disadvantaging Black women.
i)4. Workplace Impact:
Menopause symptoms can lead to increased absenteeism, reduced productivity, and mental health challenges. Without adequate workplace policies and support, Black women may disproportionately suffer in their professional lives.
Conference, the National Black Members Committee recognises the unique and significant impact of menopause on Black women and calls for the following actions:
A)Raise awareness and collaborate with Service Groups, Regions and Branches to implement educational programs within workplaces, raising awareness about menopause, with a focus on the specific experiences of Black women.
B) Support initiatives to improve Healthcare access by advocating for better access to comprehensive healthcare for Black women, including culturally competent menopause specialists that partner with healthcare providers to ensure Black women receive accurate diagnoses and effective treatments.
C)Exploring how to give workplace support to Regions and Branches and help to promote workplace policies that support women going through menopause, such as flexible working hours, remote work options, and designated rest areas.
Conference how can employers establish support groups and counselling services through in-house employee assistance programs, specifically for Black women experiencing menopause.
Research and Data Collection that can focus an understanding of the unique impact of menopause on Black women, by collecting and analyses data on the experiences of Black women with menopause to inform future policy and practice will help this process.
Conference, addressing the impact of menopause on Black women is not only a matter of health equity but also of workplace fairness and productivity. By adopting this motion, we commit to supporting our members through this life stage with the understanding and resources they deserve. Let us stand together to ensure that all women, particularly Black women, receive the care, respect, and support they need during menopause.
The conference call on the National Black Members Committee to:
I)Collaborate with the National Women’s Committee, National Disabled Members Committee, LAOS, and other UNISON structures to amplify the call for systemic changes.
II) Explore policy advocacy for national and local policies that address healthcare disparities and provide targeted support for Black women during menopause
