Breaking the Silence: Menopause Event Empowers Women with Knowledge and Support
Menopause can be a confusing and challenging time, but at the recent Menopause Awareness Event at the Beethoven Centre in Queen’s Park, 40 women came together to learn, share, and feel supported. The event aimed to provide relevant, evidence-based information in a welcoming community setting—and it delivered.
Expert Advice & Real Conversations
A fantastic line up of speakers tackled different aspects of menopause:
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Dominic Haigh, Nutritionist (CNWL) – Explained how protein, bone health, and exercise snacking (short bursts of movement) can make a big difference.
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CBT Therapists from Kensington & Chelsea Talking Therapies, part of Community Living Well – Discussed how menopause affects mental health and how Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) can break unhelpful thought patterns.
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Miss Shree Data, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist – Covered what to expect during peri-menopause and menopause, HRT options, and when to seek specialist care.
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Dr Fiona Kennedy, GP (Paddington Green Health Centre) – Highlighted the need for a personalised approach to menopause, from heart and bone health to sexual well-being and non-hormonal treatments.
Support Beyond the Talks
Beyond the expert discussions, attendees explored information stalls from local organisations offering support in sexual health, mental well-being, and lifestyle coaching. They also enjoyed relaxing activities like yoga, hand massages, and Qi Gong, promoting self-care alongside learning.
Information stalls with partner organisations:
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Community Champions & Climate Champions - Community Champions | Westminster City Council and Climate Champions – Paddington Development Trust
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SASH (sexual health) - Homepage | SASH London
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OneYou (lifestyle coaching) - Home | One You Kensington and Chelsea and Westminster
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Shifaa Counselling (culturally sensitive mental health support) - Shifaá Healing Hearts Counselling – Queen’s Park Community Council
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Kensington & Chelsea Talking Therapies – to find out more about this service, visit: Kensington and Chelsea :: CNWL Talking Therapies or contact via telephone 020 3317 4200
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Westminster Talking Therapies – to find out more about this service, visit: Westminster NHS Talking Therapies or contact via telephone on 030 3333 0000
A Much-Needed Conversation
The biggest takeaway? This conversation is long overdue. Women shared how valuable it was to have a space where they could ask questions and feel heard. Speakers emphasised the importance of accessing this information earlier, so women can make informed choices about their health. This event was just the beginning—because no one should have to navigate menopause alone.
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If you would like to self-refer to the service visit our dedicated Talking Therapies website.
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If you need support out of hours or in a crisis you can also speak to the Single Point of Access Team on 0800 0234 650. Lines are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week or email cnw-tr.spa@nhs.net

A Much-Needed Conversation
The biggest takeaway? This conversation is long overdue. Women shared how valuable it was to have a space where they could ask questions and feel heard. Speakers emphasised the importance of accessing this information earlier, so women can make informed choices about their health. This event was just the beginning—because no one should have to navigate menopause alone.
-
If you would like to self-refer to the service visit our dedicated Talking Therapies website.
-
If you need support out of hours or in a crisis you can also speak to the Single Point of Access Team on 0800 0234 650. Lines are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week or email cnw-tr.spa@nhs.net