Maria Anderson

Women's health is in crisis across the UK, with so much information and myths aroundmenopause, women are confused and fearful of entering the legacy chapter of perimenopause and menopause.Recognising the detriment to the economy with 1 millionwomen leaving the workplace in the UK every year and 14 million sick days lost becauseof menopause symptoms, this work is an opportunity to support women, staff, andfamilies and improve the economy. Menopause is not an illness, it is an opportunity. Thiswork will focus on the wellness and health of women which strives to have a positivesocio-economic impact .This work will be in line with meeting recommendations of the Women's Health PlanScotland 21-2024 and updated guidance for 2025.Of all aspects of Women’s Health, thearea that often leads to inconsistent advice being given is around menopause. The needfor education of healthcare professionals has been recognised and addressed, with theaim of women receiving consistent advice throughout Scotland. (Women's Health PlanScotland 2021)Maria proposes to educate and empower staff working within organisations acrossScotland to support and facilitate women with resources, tools, and knowledge tounderstand this complex topic in simple small steps. Maria’s collaboration with theScottish Football Association will be showcased to demonstrate what has been possibleusing ‘The Power of Football.’ The results are life-changing to help women to finallyunderstand what’s actually going on in their body and mind during menopause. It allowsthem to take a step back from all the ‘hype and chaos’ and think logically about whattheir body needs. Applying learning in small simple steps supports women to reducetheir menopause symptoms and feel confident to speak to a health professional andvoice their needs. The evaluation report from Glasgow University on this work ishere