North Cheshire and Mersey recognised amongst top names at prestigious menopause awards

A programme to change the way people talk, listen and support those who are experiencing menopause and perimenopause has been shortlisted for a national award.

North Cheshire and Mersey NHS Foundation Trust (NCM) has been named as a finalist at the Menopause and Menstruation Friendly Employers Awards – alongside top organisations such as American Express, HSBC and QVC.

Now in its fifth year, the awards celebrate employers and individuals who have made a difference to workplace support for menopause, menstruation and menstrual health.

The trust has been shortlisted for the Most Open Culture Award, which recognises workplaces where menopause is spoken about openly, with strong leadership and a culture that encourages conversation and understanding.

More than 70% of the NCM workforce is made up of women in mid-life, many of whom balance demanding roles with challenging menopause symptoms.

Over the past 3 years, the trust has developed a programme designed to create an inclusive workplace and embed support into every aspect of working life.

At the heart of the programme has been the Women’s Staff Network, Menopause Cafes – supportive confidential spaces for colleagues across all professions to share experiences and offer peer support – and menopause advocate training to help challenge the stigma around menopause.

The programme has helped create a culture where colleagues feel safe to talk openly, ask for help and support one another without fear of judgement.

Earlier this year, the trust was also awarded the Menopause Friendly Accreditation for its commitment to creating a culture that truly makes a difference.

Lucy Gardner, chief strategy and partnerships officer and women’s staff network executive lead, said: “I am absolutely delighted that the trust has been shortlisted for this award and recognised for our work to create a safe, supportive and inclusive environment for our staff.

“Three years ago, menopause was rarely discussed openly but today it’s part of everyday conversations. Colleagues consistently tell us they now feel heard, supported and able to discuss menopause openly. I am very proud of the work our Women’s Staff Network have done to embed practices and help the trust to build a workplace that removes stigma for all.”

The trust has also introduced menopause guidance for managers, educational events to increase understanding and worked alongside other staff networks to ensure support reflects the experiences of colleagues from different cultural backgrounds, disabled colleagues and LGBTQ+, trans and non-binary communities.

One of the most powerful aspects of the programme has been encouraging colleagues to openly share their experiences with more than 5,000 staff who work at the trust.

Speaking of her experience, Shelly Carr, culture and inclusion facilitator, said: “Having the opportunity to share my personal menopause journey with more than 5,000 staff was slightly daunting, but I wanted to talk honestly about how I felt – dealing with anger, poor sleep, brain fog and the challenge of showing up to work every day feeling exhausted and not quite like my old self.

“I received lots of lovely and positive messages but one response from a male colleague who told me it helped him better understand what his wife was experiencing, was incredibly special. It reminded me that talking openly about menopause isn’t just about supporting women – it helps everyone understand, support and have better conversations with the people around them.”

Winners of the awards will be announced on Wednesday 16 September at the Menopause and Menstruation Friendly Employer Event.

To find out more visit: Menopause and Menstruation Friendly Employer Awards 2026 - Menopause Friendly UK