The union claims men are being victimized over “manopause” and says employers have a “duty of care” to protect those affected by it
- The Community Union has warned that employers have a duty of care to employees
Emoloyers have a “duty of care” to protect men going through menopause, according to a union.
She describes it as “a normal biological change that every man experiences” and insists men shouldn’t be ashamed to admit they have symptoms such as poor sleep and hot flashes.
The council warns that the workplace must protect them from bullying or harassment, otherwise legal action could be taken.
Those affected are encouraged to ask their superiors for help, such as special uniforms.
The Community Union, which represents a range of sectors including steel and justice, says people suffering from severe andropause – or “male menopause” – could even be classed as disabled.
This comes after an investigation by the Daily Mail revealed that dozens of councils, universities, police forces, fire services and NHS trusts have policies on the issue (stock image)
It states that men in andropause would be protected by the Equality Act, which is intended to protect employees from discrimination.
Critics last night described the guidelines as “an absolute joke”. Charlie Mullins, founder of Pimlico Plumbers, said: “I would rather go to court than give in to this ‘manopause’ nonsense.”
This comes after an investigation by the Daily Mail revealed that dozens of councils, universities, police forces, fire services and NHS trusts have policies on the issue.
This is despite the NHS England website branding the term “misleading” because it suggests that men in middle age experience a sudden drop in testosterone, similar to that experienced during menopause in women.
As with women, menopause is used to describe the period in an adult man’s life when his hormone levels plummet
The community advises its members: “You should not be ashamed to talk about a normal biological change that every man experiences… If you experience bullying or harassment because you are going through andropause, your employer has a duty of care.” Prevent it this.’
Major unions such as Unison and GMB do not mention menopause in men, but state that “menopause affects a wide range of people”.
In its policy, GMB notes that “menopausal symptoms can also occur in people from the non-binary, transgender and intersex communities.”
The Unison guidance, meanwhile, states that trans women “may experience pseudo-menopausal symptoms if their hormone therapy is interrupted”.
Community Union has been contacted for comment.