The Government has unveiled new gender pay gap and menopause action plans designed to help women thrive in the workplace, as ministers seek to shift the focus from transparency to tangible change ahead of International Women’s Day 2026.
From April, employers with more than 250 staff will be encouraged to publish detailed action plans outlining how they intend to reduce their gender pay gap and support employees experiencing menopause. The initiative forms part of a broader strategy to improve women’s economic participation, boost productivity and address the financial pressures that disproportionately affect women and families.
The measures were formally launched by Bridget Phillipson, Secretary of State for Education and Minister for Women and Equalities, who said the plans marked a renewed commitment to ensuring women can progress and prosper at work.
“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,” Phillipson said. “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.”
The new action plans are voluntary at this stage, with ministers pledging to work collaboratively with businesses to share best practice and encourage widespread adoption before any compulsory framework is introduced. The Government has positioned the initiative as part of its wider economic agenda, arguing that improving workplace equality is essential to unlocking growth.
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