More needs to be done to tackle waiting times for menopause treatment services, two local election candidates in Lichfield have said.
While the NHS target time is 18 weeks, figures reveal that some women locally are waiting more than a year.
Rosie Harvey-Coggins, Labour’s candidate for the St John’s ward in Lichfield, said such figures were unacceptable.
“Getting early access to these services can be life changing for so many women.
“Almost one million women leave employment due to menopause symptoms.
“Negotiating with workplaces to implement menopause friendly working policies is part of the important work I have already undertaken, but more needs to be done to ensure that women who are suffering symptoms including joint pain, depression and disturbed sleep can get the correct care.”
Rosie Harvey-Coggins
Sharon Taylor, Labour’s candidate for Boney Hay and Central ward in Burntwood, added:
“Every woman’s journey through menopause is a very personal one. It can be very isolating, affecting all aspects of your life, your mantal health, your ability to work, friendships and relationships.
“But it doesn’t have to be like that – menopause is now reasonably well understood, but sadly the information isn’t reaching the women who need it.
“I have experienced the gap in menopause support myself with no NHS services locally. This is why with two other local women we founded a monthly menopause support group.
“It’s so important to know that you are not alone, to talk about what you are going through and to be signposted to the support you need.”
Sharon Taylor
Women in Burntwood and the surrounding areas who are interested in attending the Burntwood Menopause Support Group can find out more details here.
The at a glance list of of candidates standing in St John’s ward at Lichfield District Council:
Jeyan Anketell
Labour
Deb Baker
Conservatives
Colin Greatorex
Conservatives
Rosemary Harvey Coggins
Labour
John Patrick Madden
Independent
Tim Matthews
Conservatives
Simon Partridge
Greens
John Smith
Liberal Democrats
The at a glance list of candidates in the Boney Hay and Central ward at Lichfield District Council:
Jim Craik
Conservatives
Di Evans
Labour
Steven Swain
Conservatives
Paul Taylor
Labour
Sharon Taylor
Labour
Great news. Can we now bring back Well Women clinics. Sorely needed.
Greater awareness needed – so thanks Sharon and Rosie for this. I led on developing a Menopause at Work Policy at the County Council and one needed at Lichfield District too. It’s too often forgotten by dominantly male councils but we can hopefully, if elected, make a difference.
Kudos to Rosie Harvey-Coggins and Sharon Taylor for highlighting this. It’s an issue that doesn’t get nearly as much attention as it should. I fully support their call for more action locally and would welcome the chance to work with them if I also get elected in St John’s.