The government has introduced gender pay gap and menopause action plans to support women to succeed at work.
The plans have been launched ahead of International Women’s Day 2026 (8 March) by Bridget Phillipson MP, secretary of state for education and minister for women and equalities. Action plans for employers are part of the Employment Rights Act 2025.
Employers with 250 or more employees will be encouraged to publish the steps they are taking to reduce their gender pay gap and how they are supporting employees affected by the menopause from April.
The action plans are intended to break down opportunity barriers and help put more money back in women’s pockets, improving the overall cost of living at the same time.
As part of its goal to ensure women can thrive at work, the government is also encouraging conversations about women’s health in the workplace and highlighting how women can benefit from employers taking action on the gender pay gap and menopause support.
Employer guidance regarding how the government and organisations can work collaboratively to support women at work has also been published.
Phillipson said: “This International Women’s Day, we are celebrating all that women bring to our proud nation, as well as committing to giving back to them. That’s why I am delighted to formally launch employer action plans, which are part of our commitment to ensure women can thrive at work and tackle the gender pay gap.
“Too many women are still not paid fairly, held back at work due to inconsistencies in support or find common sense adjustments for their health needs overlooked or dismissed. We’re acting to empower women at work and work with business, so we all benefit from unleashing women’s talents.”
Mariella Frostrup, government menopause employment ambassador, added: “These action plans are a huge step in the right direction. When employers take practical, meaningful steps to support women through menopause, they are not just doing the right thing, they are protecting their own workforce.”
