PRESS RELEASE- Government launches landmark gender pay gap and menopause action plans to help women thrive at work

Government Launches Gender Pay Gap and Menopause Action Plans

The UK Government has launched new gender pay gap and menopause action plans designed to help women thrive in the workplace and tackle inequality across employment.

Announced ahead of International Women’s Day 2026, the initiative encourages larger employers to take practical steps to improve workplace equality and better support employees experiencing menopause.

Supporting Women at Work

From April 2026, organisations with 250 or more employees will be encouraged to publish action plans outlining how they intend to reduce their gender pay gap and support staff experiencing menopause symptoms.

These plans aim to move beyond simply reporting pay gaps by requiring employers to identify specific actions that promote fair pay, workplace inclusion and health support for women.

Why It Matters

Research shows that menopause can significantly affect women’s careers, with around 1 in 10 women leaving a job due to menopause symptoms.

By encouraging employers to implement clearer policies and workplace adjustments, the government hopes to improve retention, equality and career progression for women.

Safeguarding and Workplace Wellbeing

For organisations and safeguarding professionals, the announcement highlights the importance of creating inclusive workplaces that recognise health needs, support equality and reduce barriers to opportunity.

Improving workplace policies around pay transparency and women’s health can play a key role in supporting employee wellbeing, retention and fair employment practices.