A Macclesfield woman's aim to create a more menopause-friendly society has gotten one step closer, as she has met with Macclesfield's MP.

Elissa Dobson is a Macclesfield resident and Co-Founder of Mission Menopause.

Mission Menopause aims to engage, educate and empower women and employers through developing awareness of menopause within the workplace. 

From educating in a workplace, to having a positive change for women all-over, the ambitious start-up wants to put Macclesfield on the map for menopause education.

Macclesfield Nub News first reported on Mission Menopause in 2022. And in 2024, Elissa has met with Macclesfield's MP David Rutley, in the latest chapter of their cause.

Mission Menopause's website cites stats regarding the menopause and women's jobs.

During the meeting, Macclesfield based Mrs Dobson outlined the importance of a pro-active approach to education and awareness of menopause in work settings.

Women of menopausal age are the fastest-growing working demographic in the UK. With 60% of women experiencing symptoms and 25% experiencing severe symptoms, it is crucial sufficient support is in place to protect female workers.

Mission Menopause aims to deliver unique training and coaching programmes for businesses across a variety of sectors to assist them with staff engagement. The programmes discuss a variety of topics, such as what is menopause, symptoms and how to manage the impact of menopause at work.

Mrs Dobson also explained how the organisation promote Menopause Champions to assist with conversations and signposting.

The Macclesfield shared with our town's Conservative MP the great work done by the Macclesfield Menopause Support Group, which she originally co-founded before setting up Mission Menopause.

The All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) Manifesto for Menopause.

The group worked alongside several local independent businesses and healthcare providers, to organise a menopause awareness event in Macclesfield for local women last year.

The meeting provided the opportunity to discuss the recently published All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) Manifesto for Menopause. The manifesto calls for seven key reforms to ensure that all women have the support they need in our healthcare system, in the workplace and in their communities.

Speaking after the meeting, David said "Ensuring that women have the correct support in the workplace is a vital priority. I am grateful to Mission Menopause for the work they are doing on this important issue. It is essential that everyone is better educated and aware of the symptoms and effects of menopause to allow meaningful discussions and provide support to affected women."

NHS England estimates there are at least 13 million perimenopausal or menopausal women in the UK. That is a huge chunk of the UK working economy, so MM believes supporting them in the work place through better overall workplace understanding, will leave to a better working environment.

David Rutley has been Macclesfield's Member of Parliament since 2010. (Image - CC 3.0 Chris McAndrew Flipped bit.ly/3GzdIoW)

Talking to Macclesfield Nub News following the meeting, Elissa said: "I am absolutely thrilled to have had the chance to sit down with Macclesfield MP, David Rutley, and dive into the important work that Mission Menopause is spearheading to shine a light on the challenges of menopause in the workplace."

"Menopause is something that touches the lives of countless women in the workforce, and it's our mission to make sure they have the support and understanding they need during this significant phase.

"Everyone will be affected by menopause in some way, whether personally or in the workplace. Creating safe and supportive work environments is essential to avoid women leaving their careers prematurely or feeling invisible within their organisations. The first step is simply to start the conversation."

"At Mission Menopause, we're not just about providing workplace menopause training, coaching, and consultancy; we're about creating meaningful connections and fostering open dialogues. Our 'Let's Talk Menopause' one-hour webinars are a fantastic first step for organisations looking to introduce this crucial topic into the workplace.

"These webinars have already had a profound impact. As a recent male manager shared, 'Before attending this session, I had no idea how menopause could affect individuals. Now I will be one of their biggest allies and open to continuing to listen and learn about this important topic. Thank you!

In Nub News' previous chat with Elissa, she was keen to highlight the impact the menopause has on productivity. (Image - Macclesfield Nub News)

"I'm overjoyed to share that Mission Menopause has recently been shortlisted for a Northern Power Women Business Award, standing out among 1400 applicants.

"This recognition underscores our unwavering commitment to offering comprehensive menopause support for organisations, across the country.

"On a more personal note, I am excited to be involved in organising local menopause awareness events in collaboration with GP social prescribers, the Macclesfield Menopause Support Group and other incredible professionals. These events are about reaching out to women in our community, ensuring they have access to the resources and knowledge that can make a real difference in their lives.

"I'm also delighted that Mission Menopause is soon launching a group coaching programme tailored to professional women and business owners who are grappling with the impact of menopause on both their work and personal lives. It's all part of our ongoing commitment to empower women and create a brighter future for our community.

"Moreover, the significance of the recently published All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) Manifesto for Menopause cannot be understated. This manifesto represents a strong call for change at the highest level, urging all political parties to commit to seven vital reforms. It's about making sure that women receive the support they deserve in healthcare, the workplace, and within their communities.

Macclesfield: Click the red link below to find more about them.

"Join us in this essential conversation, and together, let's make a positive impact on the lives of women right here in our community. I look forward to continuing our efforts to promote menopause awareness at all levels."

Macclesfield: For more information and to get in touch with Mission Menopause, and potentially get them to come to your place of work, please click HERE.