The British Association of Dental Nurses (BADN) launched its own Menopause Policy on 18 March 2022.

Women over 50 are the fastest growing segment of the workforce - and dental nursing is 98% female. According to a leading HR company, one in four menopausal women consider leaving their job because of lack of support and understanding from employers or managers. Employers who do support their employees through the menopause will benefit from lower sickness absence and employee turnover, as well as increased engagement and loyalty.

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BADN President Jacqui Elsden said: 'Given the current recruitment/retention crisis in dental nursing, it is in the best interests of general dental practices to support their employees during this time - not to mention the fact that menopause related tribunals have doubled in recent years.

'However, BADN recognises that this is still a difficult subject for many people and many employers may not know how to broach this subject in their practice. We have therefore produced this advice sheet with lists of relevant legislation, useful articles/websites and a specimen policy to break this taboo.'

The advice sheet/policy is available on the BADN website www.badn.org.uk.