A Warwickshire GP with a specialist knowledge of the female menopause has opened a wellbeing centre in Stratford upon Avon, following funding from Barclays

Dr Louise Newson, a trained GP for over 19 years, has opened a wellbeing centre at Winton House on Church Street in Stratford-upon-Avon.

The centre caters for women of all ages and provides both medical and holistic support for women going through the perimenopause and menopause and runs a series of events and workshops including educational talks as well as yoga and nutritional advice sessions.

Commenting on the centre, Dr Louise Newson said: "Unfortunately too many women are suffering in silence and this can have a detrimental effect on their day to day lives and those of their families.

HRT provides a solution for many women and can eliminate the unpleasant symptoms associated with the menopause. Unfortunately, it has had a bad press in the past and many women believe it's not an option for them. My role is to educate women and the health profession about the benefits so people can make informed decisions about the right approach for them. We also offer a holistic approach to the menopause and HRT is not the only treatment."

Dr Newson started her work around menopause education through her website but the enquiries she was receiving demonstrated the strong demand for face to face consultations with GPs who have a special interest in the menopause. She therefore set up a clinic at Solihull Parkway Hospital one day a week but this quickly became oversubscribed which is when Dr Newson set about establishing a dedicated wellness centre which brought her to Stratford upon Avon.

Funding for the Centre was provided by Barclays. Laura Perry, Business Manager at Barclays in Warwickshire said: "Louise and her team have created a fabulous, friendly environment for women to come and discuss their concerns about the menopause. The business is growing rapidly and already has a waiting list, demonstrating the need for a centre such as this. I am delighted we have been able to support the business and look forward to watching it flourish."

The centre has 24 members of staff working there including doctors, nurses and a number of people offering holistic therapies and administration.

Dr Newson continues: "Over 80% of our clients are travelling from outside of Warwickshire - some as far afield as Scotland, which is good for the town as people come and stay here and enjoy what Stratford upon Avon has to offer. I am grateful to Stratford District Council for their support throughout the refurbishment of the property which has enabled us to offer a warm, friendly environment for our clients."

To find out more, visit menopausedoctor.co.uk.