A drop-in session to help women navigate the menopause and access support is launching in Barrow.
The first session will take place this Thursday, June 25, at Women’s Community Matters, Nan Tait Centre on Abbey Road.
It has been organised by Women’s Community Matters and Thrive Health and further sessions planned throughout 2026.
Menopause Matters has been designed to provide a relaxed and welcoming environment where women can explore topics such as sleep, mood, hot flushes, brain fog, confidence, relationships, healthy habits and wellbeing.
Sessions will combine conversation, peer support and practical information, with input from local professionals and community partners where appropriate.
The initiative was developed following conversations with local women, community organisations and health professionals.
Organisers said a consistent message emerged that local women wanted more opportunities to talk openly about menopause, learn from others’ experiences and access support in a friendly, informal setting.
They added said: “While menopause affects around half the population, many women still report feeling isolated, under-informed or unsure where to turn for support.
“In areas facing significant health inequalities, such as Barrow and Furness, community-based approaches can play an important role alongside clinical services by helping women connect with one another, build confidence and access reliable information.”
Leigh Williams, director of Thrive Health and facilitator of the programme, said: “One of the strongest messages we heard during the planning process was that women wanted somewhere safe and informal to have honest conversations about menopause and midlife health.
“There is a huge amount of knowledge, experience and support within our communities, but often people don’t have the opportunity to connect with one another.
“Menopause Matters isn’t about experts talking at people. It’s about creating a welcoming space where women can share experiences, learn from each other and realise they are not alone.
“We hope it becomes something that women across Barrow genuinely feel belongs to them.”
Rebecca Robson, senior officer of Women’s Community Matters said: “The Menopause Café forms part of our broader health and wellbeing offer at Women’s Community Matters and it’s a great addition that we so very pleased to be able to support.”
People can arrive from 5pm and the session runs from 5.30pm to 7pm on Thursday, June 25.
Attendance is free and booking is encouraged to help organisers plan via https://www.trybooking.com/uk/GOYU
Future sessions are planned for July 20, August 27, September 24, October 29 and November 26.
