Menopause Action Plans 2027: What UK Employers Need to Know

In this episode, I sit down with Rebecca Cooper—the very first dual certified menopause coach and menopause trainer with Women of a Certain Stage. Together, we discuss her personal journey navigating early menopause and hysterectomy in her late 30s, as well as how her 20 years of HR experience inspired her to advocate for better support in the workplace. We explore the urgent need to retain female talent, particularly within STEM and male-dominated industries, where women often leave around age 44. Rebecca breaks down why addressing menopause support isn't just about compliance or policy—it's a critical commercial differentiator that impacts culture, talent retention, and the bottom line. We dive deep into the UK government's upcoming requirement for Menopause Action Plans for larger employers, shifting the conversation from simple tick-box exercises like handing out desk fans to implementing meaningful internal infrastructure, line management training, and continuous measurement. And… for a fun peek behind the curtain, you’ll hear about Rebecca's "many paws" at home, how shifting her daily working schedule restored her energy, and why saying "yes" to a spontaneous 10-minute talk sparked a brand-new path in community workshops. Timestamps 00:00 Introduction & Welcome to the First Dual Certified Coach and Trainer 01:22 Rebecca’s Personal Journey: Early Menopause & Workplace Challenges 03:45 Supporting Women in STEM and Male-Dominated Industries 05:23 Engaging Employers and Focusing on Female Retention 08:30 The Average Age Women Leave Engineering Roles 09:44 Why Formal Qualifications & Credibility Matter 11:08 What UK Employers Need to Know About Menopause Action Plans 2027 14:13 The Importance of Employee Surveys and Open Conversations 15:15 Stepping Out of the Comfort Zone: Community Talks & Local Workshops 18:33 Building Confidence, Energy, and Community Connection 20:38 Small Lifestyle Wins: Hydration and Restructuring the Work Day 22:09 Preview of the Upcoming Authority Maker Programme 22:53 Life Outside Work: Dogs, Books, and Managing Energy 25:18 Closing Thoughts and How to Connect Connect with Rebecca: LinkedIn |   / rebeccacooperhr   Meet your host Lauren Chiren Lauren Chiren is a leading voice in menopause awareness and workplace inclusion, dedicated to ensuring no one navigates menopause alone. As the Founder and CEO of Women of a Certain Stage, she works with organisations worldwide to create menopause-savvy and supportive environments. With a background in psychology, sports therapy, and nutrition, and an extensive suite of coaching certifications, Lauren is on a mission to train 20,000 Menopause Coaches and Champions, equipping them with the tools to support individuals and workplaces through this transformative life stage. Join her as she breaks the silence, challenges the stigma, and empowers people to thrive at midlife and beyond. About Women of a Certain Stage We are committed to transforming the menopause experience—both for individuals and the organisations that support them. Our mission is to empower people through education, advocacy, and expert-led training, ensuring menopause is no longer a barrier to confidence, health, or career success. Join us and our global network of professionals dedicated to breaking the stigma, improving workplace culture, and ensuring no one navigates menopause alone. Find out more here: https://www.womenofacertainstage.com/ Connect with Lauren LinkedIn:   / laurenchiren   Instagram:   / themenopausecoach   Facebook:   / womenofacertainstage   YouTube:    / @womenofacertainstage   Twitter/X: https://x.com/LaurenChiren