Launched in January 2022, the Unison Menopause café is facilitated by the Unison Branch Education Co-ordinator and Learning Representative who has undergone accredited training to provide appropriate support.  It is open to members and non-members from employers covered by the Cambridgeshire Branch, including Cambridgeshire County Council. Around a third of those who receive email updates or attend are CCC employees.   The cafe covers a broad spectrum of menopause issues, including employment rights, exercise, nutrition, overcoming stereotyping, sex life, HRT and medical interventions and alternative therapies.

Most training sessions are open to all, including managers and colleagues and relatives or friends wishing to offer support as Unison believes that menopause is an issue for everyone

Some discussion sessions are only open to people experiencing menopause and menopausal symptoms, including trans people, to allow participants to share stories and offer each other mutual support in a confidential space.

On average, around a dozen members take part every month but some sessions are much more heavily subscribed, with one session attracting around 40 people.

In total, more than 250 participants have attended in the past two years, with 140 people signed up for updates and information about the café. If you are interested in attending a session or receiving updates please contact Bess on bess.sayers@cambridgeshirepeterborough-ca.gov.uk