Holland & Barrett trains over 4,000 menopause advisors and offers free menopause consultations
Holland & Barratt has launched a new campaign and pledge to offer free menopause consultations across the UK.
In a bid to get people talking openly about their menopause symptoms and seeking help, Holland & Barrett has trained over 4,000 colleagues across its UK stores to recognise symptoms, understand the different phases of the menopause cycle, and advise on lifestyle and diet options.
The retailer has also opened a number of menopause Pause & Listen Rooms in city stores across the UK. These dedicated rooms will offer a calming space and cool spots to speak with a trained menopause adviser.
The move comes as new research conducted by the retailer reveals almost two thirds of women (61 per cent) say they do not talk about the menopause, with 61 per cent citing for fear of being ‘judged’ and treated differently as the reason.
One in three (33 per cent) said they have had experienced a negative reaction, such as shutting the conversation down, when they had spoken about what they were going through and how they were feeling.
A quarter (24 per cent) said they had even experienced ‘menosplaining’ with people trying to explain their menopause back to them rather than listening.
Fiona Sweny, Wellness Futures Science Lead at Holland & Barrett said: “There has been real progress made in recent years to bring the menopause to the forefront of the conversation, thanks to the many high-profile women who have been openly speaking about their experiences in the media. However, while awareness has improved, there is still a big job to be done in helping women feel heard. We know everyone’s journey is different and while we won’t pretend to know how an individual’s experience feels, we can promise to be there to listen, support, and offer guidance.”
For World Menopause month, the firm has partnered with TV presenter Cherry Healey to launch the menopause Pause & Listen Pledge where people are being asked to promise to unconditionally listen to and support people experiencing the menopause. Another example of the retailer’s focus to encourage women to openly talk about the menopause and to ensure they are being listened to.
To sign up to the menopause Pause & Listen Pledge visit Holland & Barrett stores or website.
