A LOCAL education authority has devised a new policy to help school staff suffering from menopausal symptoms.

It is part of an update by Blackburn with Darwen Council of its human resources policies for its schools.

This highlights the need to devise to support female staff going through 'the change' and reduce any consequent sick leave.

The menopause policy has been approved by the council's Director of Human Resources Governance and engagement David Fairclough and strategic director children’s services and education Jayne Ivory.

A report to councillors says: "This is a new policy for schools and has been developed to support schools with understanding and supporting employees in the workplace who may be facing the menopause.

"This policy is intended to help create an environment where women feel confident enough to raise issues about their symptoms and ask for adjustments at work.

"Schools will treat all individuals with dignity and respect during this time; ensure that the workplace provides support that may be needed; educate and inform employees and managers about the potential symptoms of menopause and how they can be supported at work; and reduce absenteeism due to menopausal symptoms."