Dyfed Powys Police Federation members are being reminded that everyone - both male and female - to take part in the menopause survey.
Branch secretary Roger Webb hopes to see as many people as possible taking part in the EveryonePause survey, which has been launched by the Police Federation of England and Wales (PFEW).
It follows the success of its first menopause survey that was launched in 2018, the results of which enabled the Federation to develop the National Menopause Guidance, which is now in place across all forces.
“It really is so important that as many people as possible spare five minutes to fill out this survey,” said Roger, adding: “It’s clear from the previous menopause survey just how impactful the results can be.
“And remember, this survey is available to all officers, both male and women. Although it’s generally women in their 40s and 50s experiencing menopause, I’m sure that the majority of male officers will know, live with, or work with somebody who has menopausal symptoms.
“Not only will the results of this survey help to shape future policies, but it will improve awareness and understanding of the menopause too.
“Ultimately, the only way the Federation will be able to put the right changes in place is if they have enough input from officers and staff to accurately reflect people’s experiences.”
National Federation women’s lead Hayley Aley, who is taking the lead with the survey, has also urged as many people as possible to take part in the online survey.
She explained: “Across the Federation, women representatives have reported that there is improvement since the first survey findings and the progress forces have made to support officers and staff are welcomed. However, the picture varies from force to force and we now want to see what still needs to be done to support all at this difficult time in their lives.”
She added: “To support organisations in realising the scope and scale of issues around the menopause, we are asking officers, staff and line managers for their support with this survey. It’s not solely about personal experiences, we also want to understand the awareness of line managers and senior leaders around this subject and what training is in place. It is anticipated that the findings of the second survey will help with the education, standardisation, understanding and right support for all.
“Senior leaders have a responsibility for the welfare and wellbeing of their workforce, and to support individuals appropriately when they need it. The purpose of this survey is to give us the evidence we can provide to leaders to action what needs to change, to praise those that are getting it right, to share some good practice and to ensure forces provide the right support and guidance to all.”
The survey is a joint project being conducted by researchers at the Police Federation of England and Wales (PFEW), and on behalf of PFEW, UNISON, the Police Superintendents’ Association, the National Police Chiefs’ Council, the Police Service of Northern Ireland and the Civil Nuclear Constabulary.
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