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Women in the Channel Islands are calling for improved support systems regarding menopause, citing insufficient resources and a lack of understanding of their experiences. Personal accounts from local residents reveal the profound impact of menopause on their mental and physical well-being, prompting advocates to push for systemic changes in healthcare and workplace policies.
A Cry for Help: Personal Experiences
Dani Barnett, a resident of Guernsey, recently shared her daunting journey through menopause, which began unexpectedly in October 2021 when she was thrust into surgical menopause at the age of 40 after undergoing an oophorectomy. Barnett described the turmoil she faced, stating, “I had anxiety and overwhelm; my stress levels were through the roof.” She articulated the frustration of feeling isolated and unheard during a time of significant change in her body, noting, “Every time I went back to the doctor, they said, ‘your levels are fine, you’re fine.’ But I would sit there in tears, thinking, ‘I’m not fine,’ and I didn’t know why.”
Barnett’s experience, marked by severe brain fog and emotional distress, is not unique. Many women report similar feelings of confusion and isolation as they navigate the challenges of menopause. In response to her struggles, Barnett launched a support business in September 2025 to help others cope with menopause, emphasising the need for education to dispel the fears surrounding this natural phase of life. “The more we educate, the more we talk about it,” she stated, reinforcing the importance of community and dialogue.
Workplace Challenges and Advocacy
In Jersey, Trudi Roscouet echoed Barnett’s sentiments, advocating for better workplace support for women experiencing menopausal symptoms. Roscouet, who began her journey through menopause at 51, founded a business aimed at raising awareness of women’s health issues. “Whether it’s our children, partners, or bosses, it can affect everybody and everything,” she explained, highlighting the wide-ranging impact of menopause.
Recent statistics from the British Menopause Society reveal that 45% of women feel their symptoms negatively affect their work. Roscouet is calling for businesses to prioritise education on menopause, urging employers to implement supportive measures rather than treating the issue as a one-time conversation. “It’s critical that we keep educating corporates to support female employees in the workplace,” she asserted.
The UK’s Employment Rights Act 2025 mandates that employers with over 250 employees must develop and enact a menopause action plan by early 2027. These plans should include evidence-based strategies such as flexible working options and manager training to create a supportive work environment.
Government Response and Future Initiatives
Despite the advocacy efforts, Roscouet expressed concern that government attention to women’s health issues, including menopause, has waned. “Menopause they believe has been dealt with. Women’s health is not a priority for them,” she claimed, urging for renewed focus and support from policymakers.
Deputy Andy Howell, Assistant Minister for Health and Social Services in Jersey, responded to these concerns by reaffirming the government’s commitment to enhancing services for women. Howell highlighted initiatives such as dedicated clinics and group sessions focused on coping strategies for menopause. “We are building a stronger foundation for women’s health,” she stated, with plans to roll out a Women’s Health Strategy and a dedicated resource webpage later this year.
Access to Healthcare and Community Support
In Guernsey, Dr Lucy Joslin leads a weekly menopause clinic, striving to provide accessible treatment options and support. She emphasised the importance of community resources, suggesting women utilise groups like Guernsey Mind or the Menopause Discussion Group for additional support. This multifaceted approach aims to meet the varied needs of women experiencing menopause, ensuring they are not left to suffer in silence.
Why it Matters
The growing awareness surrounding menopause is crucial as it impacts the lives of a significant portion of the population. With women constituting nearly half of the workforce, addressing their health needs is not only a matter of personal well-being but also a critical issue for workplace productivity and societal health. By fostering open conversations and implementing supportive policies, communities can empower women to navigate menopause without stigma, ultimately leading to healthier, more inclusive environments for everyone.
