A WEST Belfast eatery is to host a `Menopause Cafe' event in the hope of lifting the taboo associated with the subject.
The event, which is taking place at Applejacks Cafe at Caffrey Hill on Glen Road on November 11 from 7pm-11pm, has been jointly organised by Sinn Féin councillor Aine McCabe and the Upper Andersonstown Community Forum.
It is aimed at anyone who wants to meet others who are experiencing similar issues associated with the menopause.
The evening will also be attended by nurses Anne McGale and Liz Winden-Kerr, who have a special interest in menopause and women’s issues.
Ms McCabe said when she approached Upper Andersonstown Community Forum about the idea, it was "very supportive".
"Applejacks were more than willing to assist with this great initiative," she said.
She said the event would not be an "information session" rather a chance for those who come to chat in a "very informal" way.
"The cafe is an initial introduction," she said.
"I am hoping to offer an information session on the back of this. We definitely need to see more awareness of this among the general public, not just women. Generally, it is like a taboo subject.
"Some people have more difficulty with it than others. It is just something women in general should be able to talk about with loves ones, family, friends, employers."
She said the event, where tea, coffee, cake and chat will be on offer, is open to anyone, however attendance must be booked.
"Come along and have a chat with other people going through it or worried about going through it," she said.
"Then we will take it from there."
:: Further information about the free event, including how to book a place, is available on the Applejacks Facebook page or at www.facebook.com/aine.mccabe.73/posts/1713740722152876.
