Becoming an accredited menopause friendly employer
13 Apr 2022
We are delighted to announce our commitment to becoming an accredited menopause friendly employer.
The Menopause Friendly Accreditation showcases employers who care about the wellbeing of their colleagues and have a clear understanding of how menopause can impact an employee’s life, and productivity in the workplace.
The Menopause Friendly Accreditation is a recognised acknowledgement, one which satisfies a highly qualified independent panel of judges that an organisation is offering the right awareness, education and support. Henpicked: Menopause in the Workplace are trainers, leaders, communication experts and healthcare and other industry professionals, bringing together their collective know-how to educate and guide organisations towards receiving this accreditation.
According to Balance, the average age of the menopause is 51, and although symptoms of the perimenopause can often start at around 45 years of age. The majority of women will experience symptoms – some significant - during their menopause, which can affect both their home and work lives.
A survey of 2,000 employees and 500 business owners by Benenden Health found 23 per cent of women who have been unwell as a result of the menopause have left jobs, despite the fact that nearly all businesses polled (95 per cent) recognised that symptoms negatively impact work. This is a critical issue for all employers.
Adèle MacKinlay, Director of People and Organisational Development said:
"I firmly believe that creating an environment in which we can all bring our authentic selves to work, recognising that a transparent, open, and healthy workplace is more engaging for all and contributes to greater organisational success. Specific to the menopause, a significant life event for over 50% of our workforce, over the next twelve months, I’d love to see":
- An organisation in which colleagues find it easier to talk about the impact of the menopause on their productivity and wellbeing at work
- A greater collective – particularly with managers - understanding of the menopause and its impact
- More resources for colleagues going through the menopause to access