Age UK Norwich Celebrates Successful "Navigating Menopause" Pilot with Panacea Pause

Age UK Norwich celebrates the success of the first "Navigating Menopause" cohort in partnership with Panacea Pause.

At the start of 2024, Age UK Norwich and Panacea Pause teamed up to offer a new eight-week pilot programme to help women navigate the menopause.

This innovative programme empowered women over the age of 18 with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the physical, emotional, and social transitions of menopause. The class provided tailored support for each individual attending in an informative environment where they could openly discuss their experiences and connect with others on a similar journey. Each meeting included an information section, covering issues like hormonal changes and dietary recommendations, followed by a gentle exercise session helping to build strength and alleviate pain.

As the eight-week program comes to a close, we asked some participants why they attended and how they benefitted.

One woman said “I spent many years thinking I was going crazy, and wondering what all these symptoms were. And even with a background in healthcare, I knew it was hormones, but until you come to a class like this, and you learn from other people that you are not the only person going through it. I have learned a lot and having that comradery with other people has been so beneficial.”

Another attendee said “I was able to go to my GP and explain my symptoms and without doing this course I wouldn’t have had that understanding. I can recommend this course to anybody who has any questions about menopause. It is an important period of our life, and it has so many impacts to our family, ourselves and our mental health and coming to a class like this, you are going to learn so much.”

 As a result of the course:

• 100% of the attendees now have the confidence to discuss their symptoms and the issues menopause causes and how to better manage them.
• 75% of the attendees feel more confident to speak to their GP/ Medical professional about these issues.
• 100% of the attendees said they would recommend the class to a friend.

Michelle Rowlinson, founder of Panacea Pause said “I've found immense joy and fulfilment in leading these 8-week menopause workshops. Witnessing those transformative 'aha' moments and seeing participants apply their new knowledge in real life, especially when it comes to securing treatments like HRT, has been incredibly rewarding. Before starting these workshops, many of the women felt unequipped to discuss their symptoms effectively with healthcare providers. Now, they're not only finding relief for themselves but also creating a positive ripple effect on those around them affected by menopause. I am deeply passionate about this topic, and it brings me great satisfaction to know that these workshops can significantly enhance the quality of life for many”.

Building on the momentum of the first cohort, Age UK Norwich and Panacea Pause are excited to announce the opening of applications for the second cohort of the "Navigating Menopause" programme. This program welcomes women of all ages and experiences who are seeking education and support during this inevitable time in their lives.

The course will run over eight weeks at Witard Baptist Church, Witard Road, NR7 9XD on Mondays, 18:00 - 20:00, starting from 10th June 2024.

To register your interest in attending, please call Age UK Norwich on 01603 496 333 or email group-exercise@ageuknorwich.org.uk

Further information on perimenopause and menopause can be found here: Panaceapause