Navigating menopause is hard enough without the added strain of separation or divorce. Yet, for many women, these life events collide—often with devastating emotional and financial consequences. That’s why Ridley & Hall has developed Menonup, a new approach to legal planning that recognises the real-life impact of menopause and other life-altering conditions. Read on to discover why a rethink is long overdue—and how Menonup offers a human-centred solution.

• What Is Menonup?
• The Brutal Reality of Menopause
• Work, Separation, and a System That Doesn’t See You
• It’s Time for a Menonup
• Support That Goes Beyond Legal Advice
• Menopause Affects Men Too
• Let’s Rethink What Separation Can Look Like
• How Ridley & Hall Family Law Solicitors Can Help

What Is Menonup?

Menonup—what’s that? It’s not a word you’ll find in the dictionary (yet), but it’s a concept that might just change how we think about menopause, relationships, and legal planning. If you’ve ever been blindsided by the relentless symptoms of menopause while also navigating separation or divorce, you’ll understand why a new approach is desperately needed.

The Brutal Reality of Menopause

Menopause isn’t a soft landing into the next chapter of life—it can be a tidal wave. For many, the symptoms come on unexpectedly and stay far longer than anticipated. Think brain fog, constant hot sweats, crushing fatigue, disrupted sleep, aching joints, panic attacks, and an overwhelming loss of confidence.

These aren’t just inconvenient. They’re life-altering. They can derail careers, strain relationships, and shatter self-esteem. And for women in their mid-forties to early fifties—already at a vulnerable point emotionally and financially—this can be catastrophic.

Work, Separation, and a System That Doesn’t See You

According to the Fawcett Society, 10% of women leave work due to menopause symptoms. That’s not just a personal loss—it’s a hit to long-term earning potential and future financial security.

Add to that the fact that this stage of life often coincides with separation or divorce, and you’ve got a perfect storm. Unfortunately, divorce law has been slow to recognise the debilitating impact of menopause on women’s lives and livelihoods.

From my own experience, I know how much effort it takes just to maintain the status quo. Keeping up the same hours, performing at the same level—it becomes a daily battle. And when the system expects you to “try harder” during an emotional and physical crisis, it’s clear that something must change.

It’s Time for a Menonup

Here’s where Menonup comes in.

We believe in a more holistic, compassionate, and collaborative approach to separation—one that recognises the realities of menopause and other life-altering conditions. At Ridley & Hall, our Family Law team can work with you to include specific clauses in prenuptial or postnuptial agreements that take into account the financial impact of menopause, illness, or other foreseeable events.

We’re advocating for foresight and empathy in legal planning. This isn’t just about law—it’s about recognising your full humanity at a time when you may feel most vulnerable.

Support That Goes Beyond Legal Advice

We don’t stop at paperwork. We’ve built a network of trusted professionals—from life coaches and financial planners to therapists—so that you can access the emotional, financial, and practical support you need.

This isn’t just about protecting assets. It’s about protecting people—their futures, their well-being, and their dignity.

Menopause Affects Men Too

While menopause is often seen as a women’s issue, growing medical evidence suggests that men can also experience hormonal changes—sometimes referred to as “andropause”—which can impact their mental health, energy levels, and emotional stability.

That’s why Menonup is not a gendered solution. It’s a human-centred framework for dealing with difficult transitions, whether they stem from hormonal changes, health challenges, or personal crises.

Let’s Rethink What Separation Can Look Like

We’re not saying separation is easy. But with the right legal advice, emotional support, and financial planning, it doesn’t have to be risky, unpleasant, costly, or unkind. Menonup represents a more sensible, compassionate, and future-focused approach.

If you’re going through it—or can feel it on the horizon—don’t wait for the system to catch up. Let’s create something better, together.

How Ridley & Hall Family Law Solicitors Can Help

Contact the Family Law Team at Ridley & Hall to learn more about Menonup and how we can help you navigate this stage of life with strength, dignity, and support.

Karen Roberts – Solicitor