Get involved in menopause yoga, cafes and conversations

At LJMU we hope to create an environment where menopause is discussed openly, and where staff are fully supported on their journey. Last year we launched our Staff Menopause Policy which forms the basis of our actions.

Yoga for menopause

Since then, we’ve trialled a series of menopause yoga sessions, as part of our Feel Fab Feb wellbeing month. They were led by Maxine Sharples, a member of staff and a qualified yoga instructor.

Thanks to their overwhelming success, a further 10 weeks of sessions have now been scheduled. They are free for LJMU staff and will run every Tuesday (starting 16 May) from 12.15pm to 1pm. Book via the LJMU Sport app (available on Google Play or App Store) or just turn up.

Lynne Fitzsimmons, Helpdesk, Planning and Support Officer, has been working alongside the HR team to ensure that colleagues from Campus Services were able to trial the yoga sessions back in February.

She said: “The feedback I received from them was extremely positive and the engagement in the menopause yoga sessions has really benefitted the team. From sharing experiences of the menopause, to learning full body stretches that will help after sitting at a desk all day.”

The HR team will continue to work with colleagues across the university taking on board feedback and arranging future menopause related sessions at times and in locations that benefit all staff and that allow participation for all.

One member of staff who attended a yoga session said: “Maxine is fabulous and encourages the class to discuss how they are feeling going through the menopause and to share, so although it’s a yoga class it’s also a bit like a support group. It is so good to speak with people who are going through the same as yourself…it brought together a mixture of women from our staff (who normally wouldn’t even know each other) to chat and chill and stretch.”

Menopause Matters Group

A new Teams group has been set up so that staff can share news and articles, as well as details of events and activities, and for anyone to post their thoughts and tips related to the menopause.

Request to join the Menopause Matters Teams Group.

Menopause Cafes

There’s already been two Menopause Cafes this year with a further two arranged for dates in July (5) and October (18) which are available to book onto via the Staff Events page.

Further help and support

Visit the Staff Wellbeing hub webpage for information and support on understanding the menopause.

If you have any ideas, feedback or would like further advice, please email Menopause Matters.