Healthcare services across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland (LLR) have joined forces to embark on a county-wide roadshow, which will provide vital support for those experiencing the physical and emotional challenges associated with the menopause.

The Menopause Roadshow - led by LLR's NHS Talking Therapies Service - started today (Monday) at the Whitwick and Coalville Leisure Centre and will be at Ashby Leisure Centre and Lido on Thursday (October 17, 9.30 am – 1 pm).

There will be an online session on World Menopause Day on Friday (October 18) - for those who are unable to attend in-person.

A growing body of research highlights the need for increased awareness of the menopause and its associated symptoms, in addition to greater support for individuals who experience physical and emotional stress related to it.

One report has revealed that two-thirds of perimenopausal women felt unprepared or blindsided by the menopause and around half of women confessed they knew almost nothing about the menopause before they started going through it.

Plus, 41 per cent of individuals experiencing the menopause stated that they felt 'lonely, invisible, irrelevant or dispensable'.

Brendan Street, principal clinical lead of LLR's NHS Talking Therapies service provided by Vita Health Group, said: "Although most women will experience the menopause, there remains a significant gap in knowledge and support. Everyone experiences the menopause differently and it can be a really challenging and debilitating time for many.

"Raising awareness of the various physical, emotional and psychological changes of the menopause and ensuring people have access to support is crucial, particularly for those who find the menopause challenging.

"More than nine out of 10 women experiencing the menopause say they would benefit from society being more open to talking about the menopause, with more sources of practical and emotional support, according to research. 



"We are thrilled to be collaborating with The Menopause Awareness Raising Service, Everyone Active, Active Together and North West Leicestershire District Council, to help stamp out the stigma that's still associated with the menopause, and to bring vital support to people across the Leicestershire region."

The Menopause Roadshow in Ashby is free to attend and will be a space to connect with others facing similar challenges. The sessions will also feature a variety of physical activity taster sessions designed to promote wellbeing during this transitional period of life.

Individuals are welcome to drop in to the sessions and do not need to reserve a place, however booking is required for those who would like to participate in the physical activity tasters.Those unable to attend in person can join the online webinar on World Menopause Day - Friday 18 October. The free virtual session will be an opportunity to find out more about the support available in the region from NHS Talking Therapies, The Menopause Awareness Raising Service, Everyone Active, and Active Together.

You can register for the online session HERE.