The Women’s Health Plan: A Plan for 2021-24, published in August 2021, sets out how the Scottish Government intends to reduce inequalities in health outcomes affecting women, working with NHS Boards and other partners. The plan also highlights inequities within the health and social care workforce including occupational segregation, with women under-represented in some areas. The Women’s Health Platform sets out information for women at key stages of life from puberty to later years. This includes a whole suite of resources to support people through menopause to help manage symptoms, including making healthy lifestyle choices, trying different treatments and seeking support from healthcare professionals.
To mark Menopause Awareness Month in October, the ALLIANCE in partnership with the Scottish Government are hosting a public information webinar on ‘ Menopause and mental wellbeing’ Tuesday 28th October, 12:00 – 13:15.
This session will explore why menopause can impact mental wellbeing, and what support is available to women experiencing psychological symptoms. It will cover the science behind menopause’s effect on mood, wellbeing, cognition and sleep, while pointing to practical tools, lifestyle changes and treatment options that can make a difference. This webinar is open to anyone that wishes to learn. Health professionals are welcome to join, although discussion will not focus on diagnosis or managing conditions from a professional perspective. Expert speakers: Dr Katie Marwick, University of Edinburgh and NHS Lothian and Dr Becky Howie, NHS Lanarkshire
More information on the webinar can be found here: Menopause and mental wellbeing – Webinar – Health and Social Care Alliance Scotland.
Please feel free to share with your relevant networks.
The NHS Lothian response to Scottish Government Women’s Health Plan is based on the findings of an Equality and Children’s Rights Impact Assessment in February 2025. See our Public Health and Health Policy Equality and Human Rights page for the full report.
Our local priorities for 2025/26 relate to:
- Contraception
- Menopause
- Domestic Abuse
- Heart Health
- Maternity Services
- Mental Health
- Workforce Support and information
The ambition and principles of the SG Women’s Health Plan are aligned with the vision of the Lothian Strategic Development Framework (LSDF) to centre healthcare around the individual, support people in Lothian to live longer and healthier lives and to provide better experiences for those who use our services, and those who work with us.
Scottish Government will be launching Phase 2 of the Women’s Health Plan in January 2026.
