Women in Sport is to step up its support for women going through menopause in accessing the benefits of sport.

New funding of £100,000 from the Postcode Sport Trust will be used on research, programme development and campaigning by the charity.

The Trust, which distributes funding generated by players of People’s Postcode Lottery, supports charities and good causes that are improving the health of communities by encouraging and inspiring participation in sport through activities and facilities. Women in Sport will embark on a project that aims to re-engage women with physical activity during menopause so they can remain stronger and healthier into later life.

The programme will follow a group of women who are currently inactive and going through menopause, to develop an understanding of their lives, values and motivations. Previous research by Women in Sport has shown that 84% of women would like to be more active during the menopause. By working with other organisations in the sector the charity will look to create ideas to support women to engage in physical activity that meets their needs during menopause.

“We are delighted to receive this support from players of People’s Postcode Lottery to develop our understanding of menopause and look at how we can change the conversation around this important topic,” said Stephanie Hilborne, CEO Women in Sport.

“We know that women of this age have been overlooked and ignored in their ability to be physically active, and we don’t think that it is fair for them to be invisible anymore. We want to help women to galvanise this moment of opportunity and use their voices to help inspire other women to break through the negative stereotyping and access sport in a positive and life-changing way.”

Hazel Johnston, Senior Programmes Manager at People’s Postcode Lottery, said: “I am delighted that players of People’s Postcode Lottery are supporting Women in Sport with this fantastic project.

“Menopause is a topic often overlooked and I am proud that support from our players is allowing the development of a project that will actively engage women in sport whilst meeting their needs whilst going through the menopause.”

To find out more about Women in Sport, visit its page on the ConnectSport directory. To add your organisation for free, contact hello@connectsport.co.uk.