Ahead of International Women’s Day 2022, we’re proud to have launched our own menopause policy for HCML employees. Our Medical Director, Dr Rebecca Brady is leading the implementation of the policy, which takes positive action to ensure every employee going through the menopause, or experiencing the menopause indirectly in some way, is supported.
A practising GP, Dr Brady understands just how important this is to individuals and the positive impact it will have for those working and experiencing symptoms: “I understand first-hand the impact that menopause symptoms have on individuals. I am passionate about supporting a change in the mindset and attitude around menopause and providing a workplace where those experiencing symptoms can access support required, request necessary changes to their work environment and continue to thrive in their career.”
The policy will be embedded within the organisation through training at all staffing levels. Our aim is to instigate a shift towards employees feeling able to have an open conversation and ‘breaking the taboo’ around the impact of the menopause.
The policy is part of a wider wellbeing strategy which includes an Employee Assistance Programme, Mental health First Aiders and an ongoing series of ‘Wellbeing Workshops’ to support employees in areas as diverse as nutrition, sleep and facing your inner critic.
In addition to launching the menopause policy, we have also signed the Menopause Workplace Pledge, a campaign run by Wellbeing of Women, to take further positive action and commit to:
- recognising that women may need support with menopause symptoms in the workplace
- ensuring an environment that allows for open, positive and helpful conversation about menopause
- actively supporting our employees affected by menopause.
Research has shown that 25% of women consider giving up work because of menopause symptoms [1] and nearly one million women have [2]. With a focus on wellbeing support we enable everyone to thrive within the organisation.
[1] https://www.peoplemanagement.co.uk/long-reads/articles/hr-guide-menopause
[2] https://www.wellbeingofwomen.org.uk/campaigns/menopausepledge