Issue Date: 21/02/2023
An Garda Síochána today publishes a menopause guidance document to support women in the police service. It is also to support supervisors and colleagues of those experiencing menopause, and it highlights the support and resources available.
The organisation is committed to creating a healthy workplace that places personnel health and wellbeing at the forefront, as outlined in the Garda Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2021-2023. One of the key actions in the strategy led by the Garda National Wellbeing Office is the management of menopause in the workplace, which can impact the wellbeing and overall performance of Garda personnel.
The guidance document aims to foster a culture in An Garda Síochána whereby, should they wish to, personnel in An Garda Síochána can talk about menopause, without fear or embarrassment, and with respect for privacy. It also aims to ensure that personnel experiencing symptoms are aware of options, and facilitated to access supports.
Superintendent Goretti Sheridan, member of the Garda Menopause Steering Group, says,
"An Garda Síochána is demonstrating we are committed to supporting women in the workplace by publishing this menopause guidance document. There is a great understanding of managing menopause in the organisation, with the tone from the top setting a clear agenda of equality in An Garda Síochána.
"I look forward to personnel of An Garda Síochána benefitting from this guidance document, and especially supervisors and line managers being supported to understand the experience of menopause and having helpful conversations in the workplace, when requested by those experiencing menopause symptoms”.
