Law firm Stephenson Harwood LLP has introduced a global policy and approach to support anyone experiencing the menopause.

"While half of our workforce have gone - or will go - through menopause, it still carries a certain stigma and a hesitancy to discuss it," said Stephenson Harwood partner Tammy Samuel, who has played an integral part in the initiative. "We want to be part of changing that, and of normalising an experience which is, ultimately, a natural part of life for the vast majority of the population – whether directly, or through relationships with female friends, colleagues and family members."

Three out of four women experience symptoms, while one in four can experience severe symptoms, which impacts their day-to-day life.

"As a firm, we want to create a safe and inclusive working environment where anyone who is experiencing the menopause feels comfortable asking for the help they need to manage their symptoms," said Liz Cope, senior D&I and social impact manager, Stephenson Harwood.

The support – which is available globally – includes access to information, professional support and wellbeing services, as well as help to make use of other policies, such as flexible working and work allocation where symptoms are having an impact, and a temporary adjustment might be beneficial.