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<p>1. PQ 135588</p><p>The HMPPS annual fitness test policy allows for an alternative
fitness test for prison officers with an underlying medical condition, injury or suffering
from any specific side effects relating to the menopause.</p><p>HMPPS published a
new Fitness Test policy and toolkit in November 2021 which outlines the support for
employees to pass the test through the line manager, fitness testing team, establishment
PE officers or referral to occupational health. The toolkit specifically gives information
for staff displaying symptoms of peri menopause and menopause and the process for
delaying the fitness test if required and relevant support available.</p><p>Staff
presenting with menopausal symptoms at their fitness test will require a holistic
approach to ensure their safety and ability to undertake the test. The occupational
health clinical context in conjunction with the Fitness Test policy takes into account
an individual’s needs with impartiality and their functional capacity regarding ability
to take the fitness test. This Fitness Test policy must be applied in a fair and equitable
manner and in accordance with the Equality Act 2010 and to ensure compliance with
the Public Sector Equality Duty.</p><p><br>2. PQ 135589</p><p>Information in relation
to menopause has been added to the occupational health user guide with intranet links
to the HMPPS fitness test policy and toolkit, HMPPS menopause toolkit, supporting
the workplace in menopause (SWIM), championing women in the workplace group, employee
assistance programme and occupational health.</p><p>The OH provider has launched a
workplace wellbeing platform which offers links to the above and articles, podcasts
and information on menopause in the workplace and the available support both within
the workplace and external information.</p>
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