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A new health board initiative is changing the way menopause care is delivered in GP surgeries across Gwent.

The Menopause Champions Project, introduced in June last year by Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, aims to give patients going through menopause better access to support.

The scheme was developed by Dr Jayne Forrester-Paton, a menopause and sexual and reproductive health specialist, alongside Dr Michelle Olver, clinical lead of the menopause team, and nurse consultant Nikki Noble. Together, they set out to equip GPs and practice nurses with up-to-date knowledge and tools to improve care.

So far, 41 GP practices across Gwent now have a trained “Menopause Champion” — a clinician specially trained to provide women with menopause advice and guidance.

Dr Forrester-Paton said: “We are proud of how successful this project has been so far and will continue to grow, with plans to expand educational sessions for clinicians, offer virtual case discussions to improve care for complex menopause cases and strengthen the collaboration between primary care and specialist menopause services.

“The Menopause Champions Project is helping to ensure that menopause is treated with the same care and attention as any other health issue, giving patients the support they need, when they need it.”