Women in Wholesale (WiW) has launched an online Menopause Café in response to requests for more education and support around menopause in the workplace.
WiW has teamed up with Mondelez to launch the online café – a community and safe space, focused on understanding and supporting menopause at work, with the sessions hosted by Michelle Painton, R&D enterprise health, safety & environment lead at Mondelez International.
“Since 2019, we’ve offered an array of menopause resources including: Managers and Colleagues guides, cafes, champions, and training to help our colleagues successfully navigate the menopause. This has made colleagues feel more supported and, in turn, has gained us the 2024 Food and Drink Federation HR Initiative award. We’re excited to share our journey with WiW,” said Painton.
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A recent WiW Menopause Survey 2024* revealed that 76% of women who are experiencing menopause, struggle with mental symptoms at work, including brain fog and hormonal changes. Additionally, 51% reported emotional symptoms like anxiety and depression, while 46% faced physical issues such as hot flushes and weight gain.
Many respondents shared discomfort in speaking openly about their symptoms. Notably, 88% expressed interest in attending an online menopause meet-up, with 68% wanting to understand menopause to better support their teams, even if not personally affected.
Lyndsey Cambridge, head of engagement and communications at FWD, added, “Creating spaces like the WiW Menopause Café is essential for breaking down barriers that prevent open discussions about menopause. It’s a fantastic step forward in fostering a more inclusive workplace for all.”
WiW Menopause Café 2025 – Session Dates and Links
The WiW Menopause Sessions are taking place on the following dates. The sessions are open to all people working in convenience and foodservice wholesale.
[Session 1]
WiW Menopause Cafe:
Intro & Coping with Mood Swings, Anxiety & Depression
December 12th, 10am-11am, Join here.
[Session 2]
WiW Menopause Café:
Actionable Adjustments in the Workplace
March 13th, 10am-11am Join here
[Session 3]
WiW Menopause Café
How to Support Your Colleagues
June 12th, 10am-11am Join here
[Session 4]
WiW Menopause Café
Dietary Tips and Nutrition
September 11th 10am-11am Join here
