Creating an inclusive, supportive workplace where everyone can thrive
At PFAS, we believe that wellbeing at work means recognising the full picture of life and supporting our people through every stage of it.
Throughout October, we shone a spotlight on Perimenopause Awareness, sparking open conversations, sharing real experiences and equipping both colleagues and managers with the tools and understanding to better support one another.
Our goal was simple: to normalise the conversation around menopause at work, break down stigma, and demonstrate that PFAS is a place where people feel seen, supported, and valued.
Why Are We Talking About Perimenopause at Work?
Menopause isn’t just a personal health matter, it’s a workplace one too. Around half of the population will experience menopause directly, while others are affected through partners, friends, family, and colleagues.
Symptoms such as fatigue, anxiety, hot flushes, or brain fog can have a real impact on daily life and working confidence. Without the right understanding and support, this can leave people feeling isolated.
That’s why PFAS is helping to lead the conversation and ensuring that no one feels alone or misunderstood when navigating this stage of life.
By opening up discussions, we can help reduce stigma, foster empathy and make the workplace a more inclusive space for everyone.
Real Voices, Real Experiences
One of the most powerful aspects of our campaign came from colleagues who bravely shared their personal stories — shining a light on what perimenopause really looks and feels like, both professionally and personally.
Their openness helped shape three key lessons that any workplace can learn from:
- Empathy and Understanding – Sometimes, all it takes is one open conversation to make a big difference.
- Flexibility – Small adjustments (like flexible working, short breaks, or temperature control) can improve comfort and performance.
- Education – The more we know, the less stigma there is — and the more confident people feel asking for support.
“Some mornings I’d start work after a sleepless night and just hope I’d get through the day. I didn’t want special treatment — just understanding.”
“Brain fog hit me hard. I’d lose my train of thought mid-meeting. Once I opened up to my manager, we found small adjustments that helped.”
“I realised I wasn’t alone — talking about it made all the difference.”
These shared experiences have helped shape a workplace culture that listens first and acts with compassion.
Learning, Listening, and Leading the Conversation
As part of the campaign, we hosted a Deep Dive into Perimenopause session led by Nuzhad Chagan, our Communications & Engagement Lead. Our PFAS colleagues all came together to explore how sharing the personal experience, proactive health management, and self-advocacy can empower those going through perimenopause.
Key takeaways included:
- Track your symptoms and note what helps.
- Speak to your GP or specialist early.
- Plan ahead — financial wellbeing matters too.
- Explore what works for you, with professional guidance.
This practical session reinforced our belief that knowledge is empowerment — and that understanding leads to more confident, compassionate teams.
Our Ongoing Commitment
Our Perimenopause Campaign was part of PFAS’s broader wellbeing strategy — a year-round commitment to supporting colleagues holistically, whether through mental health resources, inclusion initiatives, or workplace adjustments.
At PFAS, we’re proud to be an organisation where conversations like this are encouraged, not avoided.
Because when we support our people as whole individuals, we build a stronger, more empathetic organisation for everyone.
Need Support?
PFAS provides several internal channels of confidential advice and support:
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP): Free counselling and wellbeing advice for all colleagues
- PFAS Wellbeing Inbox: For private and understanding conversations in a safe space pfas.wellbeing@iprsgroup.com
- Speak with Your Line Manager: We encourage open, supportive discussions across all our teams.
External Resources:
- NHS – Menopause Overview
- Menopause Support
- Mind: Managing Mental Health Through Hormonal Change
- CIPD: Menopause in the Workplace Guidance
Why This Conversation Matters
Half of the population will experience perimenopause in their lifetime. It affects focus, confidence, and wellbeing — all of which shape how we perform and feel at work.
By talking openly, we help ensure every person feels understood and empowered, not pressured to “power through.”
At PFAS, we’re proud to be a workplace that prioritises wellbeing, inclusion, and understanding — because great employers don’t just talk about support, they create it.