A groundbreaking new report from the Women’s Health Project Committee, led by Emily Vaughan-Barratt, has revealed that 83% of women working in UK theatre say their jobs are made harder by women’s health issues.
Written by Ruby Thomas and directed by Drew McOnie, the Women’s Health in Theatre report was released today, Thursday 9 October, following a year-long research initiative.
The report explores how menstruation, infertility, pregnancy, baby loss and menopause impact working lives in theatre, and calls for urgent, sector-wide reform.
Findings show that the industry continues to operate in ways that leave women unsupported and often silenced, with serious implications for wellbeing and career sustainability.
Among the key statistics:
- 83% of women surveyed said their job has been made harder by a women’s health factor.
- 61% of employed women and 95% of freelancers are unaware of any workplace policies supporting women’s health.
- 64% of respondents were freelance, facing greater challenges due to lack of benefits or organisational support.
Minimal assistance for pregnancy, baby loss, fertility struggles, and menopause leaves many women navigating challenges alone.
The report highlights a “power through” mentality that has created a culture of fear and silence, intensifying stress and anxiety across the workforce.
In discussing menopause, women described the severe impact of symptoms such as fatigue, brain fog, and memory loss, alongside cultural stigma. The report calls for clear menopause policies, training to normalise conversations, and practical adjustments like quiet spaces and flexible working.
On menstruation, participants highlighted stigma and physical challenges that can affect performance. Recommendations include free sanitary products, flexible working, rest spaces, and staff training to build a culture of openness.
Regarding fertility, pregnancy and parenthood, panellists spoke of guilt, stress, and lack of understanding in a culture that pressures people to “power through.” The report advises robust maternity and fertility policies, return-to-work check-ins, and manager training.
Emily Vaughan-Barratt said, “This report lays bare just how urgently the theatre industry needs to respond to the realities of women’s health. For too long these challenges have been minimised or ignored, leaving women to suffer in silence. Our findings make clear that small, practical changes could make an immediate difference, but lasting change will require deep cultural and structural shifts across the industry.”
To mark the launch, the findings will be presented in a unique one-hour event at the Harold Pinter Theatre on Thursday 9 October 2025.
The presentation will feature Emily Vaughan-Barratt alongside Naana Agyei-Ampadu, Bryan Cranston, Paapa Essiedu, Lucy Karczewski, Liz Kingsman, Sophie Melville, James Norton, Tracy-Ann Oberman, and Nima Taleghani.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
