Free support for those affected by the menopause is back in Macclesfield.

Everybody Health and Leisure have brought back the menopause cafés, which were piloted at Macclesfield Leisure Centre earlier in the year.

"We are delighted to share the menopause cafés are back at Macclesfield Leisure Centre," said Everybody Health and Leisure.

"We are working in partnership with Motherwell Cheshire CIO to provide these cafés. An accessible, respectful and confidential space, open for all, regardless of gender or age, with no intention of leading people to any conclusion, product or course of action.

Pictured left to right: Debbie Sharred Motherwell Wellbeing Coordinator, facilitators Natalie Coomer and Lisa Moss.

"At the menopause café the community can discuss menopausal symptoms, tips and worries in a confidential and inspiring environment. Everyone is welcome to come and have a chat, grab a drink and talk about the menopause. A great opportunity to discuss how you are feeling, your symptoms, ask questions and get support from others."

Lisa Moss, began the menopause support group on Facebook amid the loneliness during the first lockdown. 

Three years later, she now runs a booming regular meet-up at Macclesfield Leisure Centre, to help her fellow Maxonians to go through menopause with positivity. 

The Facebook group began as more of a support group, this the Menopause Cafe is more of a social one. 

Macclesfield Leisure Centre is located on Priory Lane. (Image - Macclesfield Nub News)

Donna Williamson Senior Manager at Everybody Health and Leisure commented: "We are delighted to be working in partnership with Motherwell Cheshire CIO to provide these cafes. An accessible, respectful and confidential space, open for all, regardless of gender or age, with no intention of leading people to any conclusion, product or course of action. We look forward to welcoming the community at these sessions."

The menopause café is a welcoming space where you come together, chat about the effects of the menopause. 

Kate Blakemore from Motherwell Cheshire CIO commented: "Our aim is to facilitate as many people as possible, talking about the Menopause. There's a lot of people who don't realise why they feel the way they feel. It's trying to make women aware and help them provide a support network."

"I would like to thank Everybody Health and Leisure who are helping to bring these relaxed Menopause Cafés to the heart of our local communities and to our local GPs in Cheshire, who are showing their support in helping us shape the groups. We encourage everyone to come along and join the conversation."

As well as the local women which run the group, the initiative is supported by Crewe-based good cause Motherwell.

They will meet twice in a month.

Founder and Macclesfield resident Lisa Moss said: "You can have cake and coffee, and I bring some biscuits, in a safe space where women have an outpouring of sharing in a circle."

"We started meeting in-person at The Shamrock Bar in 2021, before moving to the Duke Street Community Centre, before finding our forever home at Macclesfield Leisure Centre. 

"Everybody Leisure offered the space for free, which we owe a big thank you to. It was through my links with them and Crewe charity Motherwell that got us the space. Everybody also pay for the hot drinks which is very kind of them. 

"About 15 people came to the sessions [earlier in the year], but we'd love to keep growing."

Natalie Coomer has been attending the menopause cafes since the first one in 2021 and then became a facilitator in 2023.

"I went through my menopause journey very early and was diagnosed at 36, I found it really difficult to process and understand what was happening to me as my friends couldn't relate to what I was going through. It really helped attending the cafes and talking to other ladies as it helped me realise what I was feeling was 'normal' and my symptoms were real!"

The menopause café at Macclesfield Leisure Centre takes place on the first and third Wednesday of each month, 7.00pm – 8.30pm.

Macclesfield: To find out more, please visit this link or contact the Everybody Healthy Team on 01270 685589 or email [email protected].

In addition to this, Lisa will also host a separate event in Macclesfield called the Macclesfield Menopause Awareness evening. At Macclesfield Community Centre on Duke Street, Tuesday 5th December at 6.30pm. There will be tables with local services and groups, and professional speakers.

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