Breaking the silence on Menopause
When our check-in agent of 42 years, Angela McDonnell started listening to a podcast about menopause, she realised just how little awareness existed around this hidden struggle, and its impact on people's lives.
At the time, Angela had listened to the Dr Louise Newson podcast - one of the UK's leading menopause specialists, because "I didn't want my daughters to go through the same lack of preparation,” having not recognised she was already post-menopausal herself.
As Angela began talking to colleagues, she discovered that she wasn’t alone. Symptoms such as anxiety were affecting confidence and wellbeing, yet menopause remained a topic many felt uncomfortable discussing.
Determined to change that, Angela and her colleague Juleykha, launched monthly MenoCafés, creating a safe space for colleagues to learn, share experiences and support one another. With support from wellbeing representatives at British Airways, the initiative grew into Menofriends, a colleague network that has spent the last six years raising awareness and championing support across our organisation.
Menopause affects us all
For Angela, one of the biggest misconceptions about menopause is that it only affects women experiencing it directly.
"Menopause affects everyone," she says. "Whether it's a partner, parent, friend, family member or colleague, we're all connected to someone going through it."
She remains surprised by the lack of understanding that still exists in some communities, particularly where menopause is rarely discussed. Menofriends has since helped create a trusted space where colleagues can access information, support and open conversations. The network has helped raise awareness of the support available through Peppy, giving international colleagues and their families access to specialist menopause guidance and resources.
Shelby's story: why it matters
The impact of Menofriends extends beyond the workplace.
In a story shared with the network, cabin crew colleague Shelby Ankers described supporting her mother through severe menopause symptoms that had a significant impact on her mental health and wellbeing. After learning about Menofriends and the support available through Peppy, Shelby gave her mother access to specialist support.
"The impact has been remarkable," Shelby wrote, explaining that access to expert guidance and information helped her mother feel more informed, supported and hopeful.
Reflecting on the experience, Shelby said Menofriends and Peppy had "helped save and transform the life of someone I love."
Menofriends
As Menopause Awareness Month approaches in October, Angela hopes even more people will feel confident starting conversations about menopause. Because when we talk openly, we help ensure no one has to navigate it alone. We’re lucky to be welcoming Dr Lousie Newson to our Head Office as guest speaker to celebrate our World Menopause Day event.
Menofriends is one of employee resource groups, set up by colleagues to empower women to embrace the changes, and to demystify menopause for partners, friends and loved ones. British Airways is the first global airline to receive accreditation as a Menopause Friendly Employer and has recently been awarded Highly Commended this year for “Best Support Group “at the national awards.