A new monthly support group for women experiencing menopause or perimenopause symptoms has opened at Hitchin Swimming and Fitness Centre.

The free "Menopause Café" sessions, launched by Everyone Active, aim to provide a safe space for local women to share experiences and receive expert guidance.

The initiative, timed to coincide with this October's Menopause Awareness Month, invites women to attend sessions held in the centre's meeting room.

Led by Everyone Active Health and Wellbeing Manager Juanita Prescott, the workshops focus on how lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms and reduce long-term health risks associated with menopause.

Speaking about the sessions, Juanita said: "The workshops provide an opportunity for women to meet in a relaxed surrounding where they can feel comfortable to talk openly about the symptoms of the menopause.

"We delve into how lifestyle adjustments can effectively mitigate symptoms and reduce the risk of long-term health issues often associated with menopause, such as osteoporosis and heart disease.

Juanita continued, "The menopausal phase can be isolating and have a profound impact on our mental wellbeing. We are pleased to announce that NHS Talking Therapies will also be available to provide vital mental health support to our attendees."

Everyone Active Area Contract Activity & Wellbeing Manager, Kirsty Jones, said: "I'm incredibly proud to see the Menopause Café initiative come to life, fostering an inclusive space where women in our community can openly discuss their menopausal journey.

"We hope they can make a real difference to anyone going through this change in their lives, so we're hoping to spread the word to as many people as possible."

Workshops take place every month, on the following Fridays this year and will continue in 2025.

- Friday 29th November 1.00pm-3.00pm

- Friday 13th December 1.00pm- 3.00pm

Everyone Active manages Hitchin Swimming and Fitness Centre in partnership with North Herts Council.

Cllr Mick Debenham, North Herts Council's Executive Member for Leisure, said: "The Menopause Café is an excellent idea and I'm so pleased to see it available for our

community. Menopause can be a tough time for many women, and having a place to share experiences and get support is so important."

To secure a spot, interested attendees have the option to book through the Everyone Active app, via the Everyone Active website or by contacting the centre directly. Bookings become available one week prior to each session.