Category Archives: Menopause

Menopause, Menopause at work, News, Wellbeing at Work, Women's Health

Organix awarded Menopause Friendly Accreditation

Organix Brands Ltd, which was launched in 1992 with a clear mission to create tasty and nutritious children’s food using the best organic ingredients, has been awarded the Menopause Friendly Accreditation.

Based in Bournemouth, the company recognises that the wellbeing of its employees is so important through every life stage and wants people to know they can carry on working in a supportive and understanding environment. By committing to be Menopause Friendly, Organix worked closely with Henpicked: Menopause in the Workplace to source information, resources and training which, together, opened up many conversations and generated some really positive feedback.

The Menopause Friendly Accreditation, established by Henpicked: Menopause In The Workplace, recognises high standards and proven practices that embrace menopause in the workplace. Industry-recognised, it is the only accreditation that sets clear standards which must be met. As such, it is truly meaningful and considered by many as a mark of excellence for menopause in the workplace.

In order to achieve The Menopause Friendly Accreditation, Organix was assessed by an Independent Panel and had to demonstrate evidence of its effectiveness in five key areas, namely: culture, policies and practices, training, engagement and working environment.

Ensuring that menopause is a safe and inclusive subject to talk about was key to Organix. Three successful outcomes of its menopause friendly strategy include:

  1. Menopause has now become a taboo-free everyday conversation
  2. People managers all feel fully confident in supporting their team with conversations about the menopause
  3. As a company, Organix understands the impact menopause can have on working lives and knows what to do to ensure people are able to carry on doing their jobs well and with confidence.

 

“We are delighted to have been awarded this accreditation.  We want our employees, and people who are thinking of working for the company, to know that we take this subject seriously,” says Lucy Critchley, HR Advisor at Organix. “Working towards and achieving the Menopause Friendly Accreditation shows we are willing to put in ongoing time and effort to support our people with their wellbeing.”

 

By providing the right support, awareness training and signposting, Organix firmly believes it will foster a fully inclusive workplace which will help them attract the valuable skills and talent that men and women of all ages have to offer.

“Whenever we consider the wellbeing of our employee’s, we also consider how inclusive we are being in our approach; although this can be seen as a mainly female subject, it’s been great to see the men in the team come along to the training and refer to the support documents,” continues Lucy. “They have been very open and appreciative, stating that they now have more understanding to support both their colleagues and family members.”

 

“Recognising that everyone needs to know about menopause, whether they are experiencing it themselves or providing vital support, has been the bedrock of the Organix approach,” says Deborah Garlick, CEO & Founder of Henpicked: Menopause in the Workplace. “I am especially heartened to learn of the very positive way that their male colleagues have embraced the training, seeing how what they learn can help their workplace relationships and those at home.”

 

For other organisations looking to embark on their own menopause friendly journey, Lucy offers this advice: “Don’t try to do it all at once, talk to your people first – ask them what they need and use that for your list of priorities. But realise that everyone’s needs on this are different, some may be very open about their thoughts and experiences whilst others may prefer to give their views anonymously, so consider gathering feedback through different channels.”

 

Education, L&D, Menopause, News

MA Professional Practice graduate excels in the field of Post-Menopause research

Katie Day, an experienced professional in training and development, has successfully completed an MA in Professional Practice from the University of Wales Trinity Saint David. This academic achievement marks a significant milestone in her career, reflecting both her dedication to personal growth and her commitment to advancing her field.

Katie said the programme, under the Professional Practice Framework (PPF), enabled her to explore how her experience of starting a business and acquiring new skills has shaped her approach to training. She said:

“The course allowed me to acknowledge the depth of knowledge I’ve gained over the years, something I had always taken for granted.”

This has empowered her to share her experiences with the women she works with, particularly in the context of post-menopause, highlighting the possibilities that this stage of life can offer.

This has empowered and encouraged her to share the MA journey with the women she works with, clearly demonstrating that, post-menopause, life offers a wealth of possibilities and opportunities.

Katie said her MA has enhanced her position as an expert in menopause training, a field she has been dedicated to for many years. She adds:

“Having the Masters helps position me as one of the ‘experts’ in the field and supports me in terms of recognition, trust and confidence with others.”

The course also prompted Katie to reassess her training methods, allowing her to make adjustments that benefit both her clients and herself. Despite over 30 years of experience in delivering training, Katie found that the course provided new opportunities for growth and development.

“Completing the MA has shown me that, when I focus and put my mind to something, there is very little I, or indeed anyone else, is unable to achieve. It represented a huge personal milestone and proved that post-menopause offers women a myriad of opportunities, should they wish to grab hold of them and investigate which are the right ones for them.”

Running her own business presented unique challenges and opportunities throughout the course.

Katie added:

“The impact on my work was significant. Balancing the demands of the course with my business responsibilities was challenging, but it also provided valuable insights that I have incorporated into my training sessions.”

Katie said she had discovered new skills through the course, particularly in research, time management, and academic writing.

“Stretching my mental capacity to write at a Level 7 academic standard was a new and challenging experience. However, it was incredibly satisfying to develop this new way of thinking and writing,” she said.

The MA was designed to accommodate Katie’s needs within her workplace.

“Running my own business meant that I did not have to ‘run it past’ anyone in terms of negotiating time to complete the requirements of the degree. It was down to me to juggle and manage my time and the demands of the business.”

This flexibility, coupled with the support of her business partner, allowed Katie to successfully manage her time successfully and complete the degree.

Katie describes the MA in Professional Practice as a life-changing experience.

“It was difficult.  It’s meant to be: it’s an MA. However, the sense of achievement was huge. It represents an opportunity to challenge yourself, with the amazing support of the University and everyone within it. We never truly know what we might be capable of unless we try.”

“Whilst there were times I questioned if I could continue and complete it, I am so pleased that I pushed through those doubts.  I am delighted to know that I have an MA (with Distinction!), as this is something that, at the beginning of the journey, I doubted I was capable of.”

Katie expresses her deep gratitude to the entire PPF team at UWTSD for their support during her studies.

“Studying for the MA at UWTSD was like being part of a large family where every member had your back and was rooting for your success. I always felt heard and supported, by everyone from my amazing tutors to all the admin staff and the people in the library. There were times when it felt like I was the only student, such was the focus and support I received.”

Sarah Loxdale, Senior Lecturer in the PPF team at UWTSD said:

“Katie’s journey through the MA in Professional Practice has been nothing short of inspiring. Her ability to balance the demands of her business, while excelling in her studies is a testament to her determination and passion for personal and professional growth. Katie’s commitment to expanding her expertise, particularly in the field of menopause training, is incredibly valuable, and we are proud to have been a part of her journey.”

Lowri Harris, Senior Lecturer in the PPF team said:

“Katie’s achievements reflect the transformative nature of the Professional Practice Framework. Her work within her business and her dedication to enhancing her skills have not only enriched her professional practice, but also the communities she serves. It has been a privilege to support Katie throughout her MA, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact her expertise will continue to have in her field.”

Katie looks forward to continuing her academic journey with a Doctorate in Professional Practice (DProf) at UWTSD. Her research project has already influenced her work, leading to new courses like “The Menopause Mind” and fostering collaborations with medical experts.

Menopause, Menopause at work, News

Socitm Advisory awarded Menopause Friendly Accreditation

Socitm Advisory, a transformation partner which provides strategic advice and solutions for digital transformation and Enterprise Resource Planning, has been awarded the Menopause Friendly Accreditation. As a remote organisation, Socitm Advisory must work hard to engage and support its colleagues based in diverse locations right across the UK.

 Making menopause an inclusive subject that no-one is afraid or embarrassed to talk about was the main aim of Socitm Advisory drawing up a menopause policy and working towards the Menopause Friendly Accreditation.  By so doing they have given colleagues the confidence to ask for help and support as, when and if they need it.

“By getting the Menopause Friendly Accreditation we demonstrated our commitment to all colleagues,” says Emma Tickner, menopause lead at Socitm Advisory.

“Furthermore, being part of the Menopause Friendly community has given us access to a huge amount of valuable information and resources for our colleagues.

“The average age for a woman to reach menopause is 51, but symptoms can start years before,” explains Emma. “Many of our colleagues may be working with us through this transition or supporting someone who is. That’s why we have focused our efforts on achieving the Menopause Friendly Accreditation, to ensure colleagues receive and recognise our support.”

 

Helen Walker, Head of HR at Socitm Advisory added, “Research has shown that 10% of women leave their jobs and many more are reducing their hours or passing up promotions because of their menopause symptoms. Ensuring colleagues feel supported at work is key to the way we do things at Socitm Advisory which is why we embarked on our journey to be menopause friendly.”

 

The Menopause Friendly Accreditation, established by Henpicked: Menopause In The Workplace, recognises high standards and proven practices that embrace menopause in the workplace. Industry-recognised, it is the only accreditation that sets clear standards which must be met. As such, it is truly meaningful and considered by many as a mark of excellence for menopause in the workplace.

In order to achieve The Menopause Friendly Accreditation, employers are assessed by an Independent Panel and must demonstrate evidence of their effectiveness in five key areas, namely: culture, policies and practices, training, engagement and working environment.

Key to Socitm Advisory’s success was creating a bespoke Menopause Policy which offered ‘security’ for colleagues to refer to and understand what support is available to them. In addition, three important elements that Socitm has implemented as part of its journey towards accreditation are:

 

  1. Training for line managers and educational workshop for all colleagues across the business.
  2. Establishing a dedicated team of menopause champions and trainers to support colleagues.
  3. Having a journey which has been as much top down as bottom up.

 

“Our Executive Team has been fully supportive to achieve our accreditation, talking about it publicly on platforms such as LinkedIn,” says Emma. “Our colleagues have been keen to get involved with the training and engaged in the information we share. I know the differences we have now introduced will positively support colleagues for the future.”

By providing the right support, awareness training and signposting, Socitm Advisory firmly believes it will foster an age and gender-inclusive workplace which will help them tap into the valuable skills and talent that men and women of all ages have to offer.

“Recognising that everyone needs to know about menopause, whether they are experiencing it themselves or providing vital support, has been the bedrock of the Socitm Advisory’s approach,” says Deborah Garlick, CEO & Founder of Henpicked: Menopause in the Workplace. “It has been an ‘all-in experience’, educating everyone and implementing training workshops for all colleagues, including the Exec Team, illustrating that it is imperative for the continued success and growth of the organisation. As a SME, Socitm Advisory stands out for its achievements and is already inspiring other public sector professionals in technology and innovation to follow its lead.”

 

For more information about Socitm Advisory visit www.socitmadvisory.co.uk.

 

Menopause, Menopause at work, News, Wellbeing at Work

Lancashire County Council awarded the Menopause Friendly Accreditation

One of the largest employers in Lancashire, Lancashire County Council (LCC), has been awarded the Menopause Friendly Accreditation. 

LCC is a public sector political organisation whose mission is to ‘help you to make Lancashire the best place to live, work, visit and prosper’. Its responsibilities include social care: supporting health and education services; building and maintaining roads and bridges; recycling centres; registering births, deaths and marriages and running libraries and museums. As such, it is a very large organisation with 264 settings where staff work, including its head office at County Hall in Preston.

 

Lucy Thompson, Lancashire County Council’s director of People says: “We are delighted to have been given Menopause Friendly Accreditation, which is the gold standard for organisations to reach in showing how seriously they take this very important health issue.

“Here at Lancashire County Council, we are proud to have created a workplace environment where every staff member feels heard, supported and empowered to navigate the menopausal journey with dignity and confidence.

“We focused on creating a culture where menopause is recognised universally as potentially impacting on both mental and physical wellbeing, and where every individual experience is respected and valued.

“We have been proud hearing how much the support we have put in place has touched people and made real improvements to their quality of life at work and at home.

“Listening to the concerns and experiences of our staff, we have proactively raised awareness of symptoms and the challenges they may bring. Not everyone may feel comfortable discussing their menopause experience, so we want to provide flexible solutions and resources suited to individual preferences and circumstances.”

 

The Menopause Friendly Accreditation, established by Henpicked: Menopause In The Workplace (www.menopausefriendly.co.uk), recognises high standards and proven practices that embrace menopause in the workplace. Industry-recognised, it’s the only accreditation that sets clear standards which must be met. As such, it is truly meaningful and considered by many as a mark of excellence for menopause in the workplace.

In order to achieve The Menopause Friendly Accreditation, employers are assessed by an Independent Panel and must demonstrate evidence of their effectiveness in five key areas, namely: culture, policies and practices, training, engagement and working environment.

 

LCC highlighted four menopause friendly initiatives of which they are most proud:

  • Their comprehensive training that includes senior leader webinars, awareness training for all staff, separate training for managers, e-learning utilising staff experiences, as well as yoga, nutrition and sleep sessions from a local partner college.
  • Monthly lunch and learn sessions which enable staff to find out ways to support their menopause journey and learn from others.
  • A comprehensive guide and bespoke policy.
  • Peer support network.

 

“We felt the Menopause Friendly Accreditation gave us an opportunity to be recognised externally for the support we have in place while also helping us further improve our offering to staff,” says Lancashire County Council Wellbeing Officer, Debra Jones. “The key to success was gaining senior leader support and bringing together a project group from a diverse range of roles, grades and experiences. By ensuring they are involved throughout the journey, the outcomes are reflective of our workforce and their needs.”

“LCC already had support in place when they began their journey towards accreditation, which was so heartening to see,” says Deborah Garlick, CEO and Founder of Henpicked: Menopause in the Workplace. “The independent panel, which makes the accreditation, noted the range of initiatives LCC had introduced as part of a very structured plan. Importantly, they included means by which they could measure the benefits that each initiative was bringing to their colleagues meaning their menopause friendly approach remains fresh and keeps developing.”

 

Menopause, Menopause at work, News, Wellbeing at Work

Bromford, which provides affordable homes for people who can’t access market housing, has just been awarded the Menopause Friendly Accreditation.

The Menopause Friendly Accreditation, established by Henpicked: Menopause in The Workplace (www.menopausefriendly.co.uk), recognises high standards and proven practices that embrace menopause in the workplace. Industry-recognised, it is the only accreditation that sets clear standards which must be met. As such, it is truly meaningful and considered by many as a mark of excellence for menopause in the workplace.

To achieve The Menopause Friendly Accreditation, employers are assessed by an Independent Panel and must demonstrate evidence of their effectiveness in five key areas, namely: culture, policies and practices, training, engagement and working environment.

 

“I am delighted that we have been accredited as a Menopause Friendly Employer,” says Jennifer Chance, Head of People at Bromford. “The menopause can have an impact on all family members, not just the person going through this, so it is great to have raised awareness of the issues on this topic and to ensure we help all to thrive when dealing with the impact of the menopause.”

 

Three initiatives which Bromford introduced that have made a big impact include:

  • The introduction of a menopause guidance and support hub
  • Menopause champions who have been visible and approachable across the organisation
  • Bi-monthly coffee catch ups, offering colleagues a safe, open space to come together, share experiences and offer advice and support to each other

 

Bromford is delighted at their success, recognising that menopause can have an impact on all family members, not just the person going through it. By raising awareness, they are helping everyone to be the best version of themselves when dealing with the impact of menopause in the workplace.

 

“The independent panel who assess all applications for the Menopause Friendly Accreditations recognised Bromford’s journey as showing a real commitment to providing a menopause friendly environment for colleagues,” says Deborah Garlick, CEO and Founder of Henpicked: Menopause in the Workplace. “By delivering a framework to work towards achieving menopause accreditation, it helped them achieve genuine sustainable and meaningful change.  It also meant that they would revisit their targets and results to ensure that the supportive culture continues to thrive.”

 

 

Menopause, Menopause at work, News, Wellbeing, Wellbeing at Work

Dementia UK receives The Menopause Friendly Accreditation

The specialist dementia nursing charity achieved ‘menopause friendly workplace’ status after meeting Menopause Friendly’s five key accreditation pillars

Dementia UK, the specialist dementia nursing charity, has been awarded The Menopause Friendly Accreditation by Henpicked: Menopause in the Workplace after demonstrating to an independent panel of experts that the organisation actively supports menopause at work across its five accreditation pillars:

  • Culture
  • Policies and practices
  • Training
  • Engagement
  • Working environment

The Menopause Friendly Accreditation recognises high standards and proven practices that embrace menopause in the workplace. Industry-recognised, it is the only accreditation that sets clear standards which must be met. As such, it is truly meaningful and considered by many as a mark of excellence for menopause in the workplace.

As part of its work towards accreditation, Dementia UK – which has a majority female workforce – has organised internal learning sessions for employees and discussed the perimenopause and menopause at all-staff meetings and events to increase understanding of symptoms amongst all employees.

Dementia UK also offers menopause training for all employees and will have more training sessions throughout October in the lead up to World Menopause Day.

Nando Caicedo, Director of People and Organisational Development, said: “We’re delighted to receive this Accreditation which echoes our support for employees who are experiencing perimenopause and menopause, ensuring they feel supported in the workplace.

“Further to the assessment criteria, we are now asking Dementia UK employees about our internal policies and practices in our engagement surveys. We hope our efforts in this area will help employees feel heard and empowered, as well as potentially giving them a greater understanding of any symptoms they may be experiencing.”

“Dementia UK is one of just a few charities that have so far gained the Menopause Friendly Accreditation and all credit must go to their hard-working team for prioritising menopause friendly action,” said Deborah Garlick, CEO and founder of Henpicked: Menopause in the Workplace. “While menopause policies and procedures may start at work, they quickly cascade to customers and wider communities plus families and friends of employees,” says Deborah. “The work Dementia UK is doing in this space can have far-reaching impact: I hope other charities are encouraged by their achievement to make a similar commitment to their own colleagues and audiences.”

 

Driving, Menopause, News

Menopause at work: Women are fearing the drive to work

With more women opening up about their varied and life-altering symptoms of menopause than ever before, one symptom that has been gaining a lot more attention in recent years is ‘menopause driving anxiety’. 

Nationwide Vehicle Contracts can reveal that Google searches for ‘menopause driving anxiety’ have skyrocketed by 200% in the last year alone, as more women are seeking advice on how to deal with this debilitating symptom. 

However, with the Department of Transport estimating that 68% of people in the UK are commuting to work by driving, many women are facing these feelings of anxiety every single day when heading to work. 

One woman spoke exclusively to Nationwide Vehicle Contracts to reveal how this problem has “changed her life” and stopped her from driving in rush hour traffic and finding alternative transport to work. 

Julie, 57, said “They don’t tell you how most symptoms of menopause can change your life, but I never expected this, to be scared behind the wheel of my own car”. 

Julie shared ‘’I live in a quiet town, where we don’t even get much traffic. But I now avoid driving in rush hour and driving any long journeys as it scares the life out of me – even the smallest thing like someone overtaking me can shake me up and I find myself not wanting to drive. 

“I’m now on HRT, but I’ve been nervous about driving now for two years, so I worry the fear won’t ever change.” 

Tips for overcoming the fear of driving

In a bid to help calm people struggling from menopausal driving anxiety when driving to and from work, experts at Nationwide Vehicle Contracts have revealed six essential tips that could help to relieve nerves when behind the wheel. 

  • Take advanced lessons 

Menopausal women usually passed their driving test more than twenty years ago, so a refresher lesson can really help to boost confidence behind the wheel. Advanced lessons can vary from motorway lessons to simply navigating roads easily. Talking to an instructor about some of your worries could make you feel better and they can offer alternative ways to ease fear.

  • Share the journey 

Having a confident driver in the passenger seat while you’re driving can also help to ease discomfort. They may help to calmly direct you to your destination, offer encouragement whilst navigating traffic and roundabouts, or even just be a comforting ear to vent to. 

  • Avoid driving in rush hour 

If you do have a fear of driving, you may find that driving during rush hour or even in difficult weather conditions can induce more worry, so it’s best to avoid driving during these times if you work a 9-5. Instead, try to find alternative public transport routes that can make your journey easier. When you get your confidence back behind the wheel, you can always try driving at rush hour again. 

  • Prepare yourself

For anyone with driving anxiety, you should avoid driving on an empty stomach or relying on caffeine. Small things like this can increase your driving fear massively, so before driving ensure you’ve eaten breakfast to ensure your body doesn’t feel anxious before the commute. 

  • Talk to a professional

If you think your driving anxiety is caused by the menopause, it’s important to speak to your doctor. Not all driving fears can be fixed simply so seeking help from a professional can help to identify the causes and identify techniques to help you become a confident driver again. 

  • Support from loved ones

Don’t be afraid to open up about your driving anxiety to loved ones. Menopause is thankfully no longer a taboo subject and more people are opening up about their experiences with menopause driving anxiety than ever before, so you might not be the only one struggling in your inner circle. 

Menopause, Menopause at work, News, Scotland

Glasgow Clyde College is awarded the Menopause Friendly Accreditation

Glasgow Clyde College – one of the largest Further Education providers in Scotland with three campuses at Anniesland, Cardonald and Langside – is the first college in Scotland to be awarded The Menopause Friendly Accreditation.

Being menopause friendly is important to Glasgow Clyde College (GCC) as it supports employee wellbeing during a significant life transition that brings many changes for its colleagues. Over 60% of its staff are women, with 50% of those over the age of 50.  As menopause affects such a significant number of people, GCC wanted to do all it could to support and retain its valuable talent and the experience they bring.

The Menopause Friendly Accreditation, established by Henpicked: Menopause in the Workplace, recognises high standards and proven practices that embrace menopause in the workplace.  To achieve The Menopause Friendly Accreditation, employers are assessed by an independent panel and must demonstrate evidence of their effectiveness in six key areas:  culture, policies and practices, training, engagement, facilities and evaluation.

Three things of which the Glasgow Clyde College menopause friendly team are most proud in terms of the changes that have been implemented are:

  • Providing menopause training for all managers to make managers aware of signs and symptoms of menopause to encourage open and supportive discussions with their staff.
  • Establishing a monthly Menopause Forum where staff can chat freely and ask questions from others experiencing or affected by menopause.
  • Creating a more open and honest culture to help normalise menopause as a normal stage in life by showcasing stories and experiences of staff who are thriving and embracing life during and after menopause.

 

Lorraine McGaw, Assistant Principal: Human Resources  at GCC, said: “We’re delighted to have been awarded the Menopause Friendly Accreditation. Going through menopause can be a really challenging experience for many women, and it’s important that employers recognise this, raise awareness amongst colleagues and and offer support where possible.

“Being a menopause friendly employer means that we provide a welcoming working environment that allows women to bring their best selves to work. By actively supporting staff, listening to feedback, investing in training and putting practices in place that normalise menopause, we’ve created an open and honest culture where staff feel empowered and valued. It has very much been a team effort, and to be recognised with this accreditation is fantastic.”

Achieving The Menopause Friendly Accreditation helps show that Glasgow Clyde College will continue to foster an inclusive culture and promote employee wellbeing.  “When people feel supported, they are more likely to feel valued and respected, leading to improved mental health, job satisfaction and engagement,” explains Lorraine, who also has this advice for other organisations wanting to get started on becoming menopause friendly.

  • Do your homework! We liaised closely with Henpicked: Menopause In the Workplace and accessed their resources to guide our training and support
  • Create a bespoke menopause policy to highlight your commitment and support.
  • Conduct a staff survey to measure and gauge the level of understanding, support and commitment that is currently in place and what else needs to be done.

 

“Glasgow Clyde College impressed our independent panel with its dedication to supporting every member of the college’s workforce through life’s transitions, ensuring they feel valued, understood and empowered,” says Deborah Garlick, CEO and Founder of Henpicked: Menopause in the Workplace. “Their approach has created a supportive and inclusive working culture which nurtures good health, wellbeing and inclusivity.”

 

Menopause, Menopause at work, News, Wellbeing at Work

NDA achieves Menopause Friendly Accreditation

The Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA) has achieved Menopause Friendly Accreditation in recognition of its work to foster an inclusive culture and put in place the right support for colleagues affected by menopause.

The accreditation, established by Henpicked: Menopause In The Workplace, recognises high standards and proven practices that embrace menopause in the workplace.

The NDA have put a variety of measures in place, including establishing the Menohub support group, training menopause champions and making the Peppy digital health app available to employees and their partners, in an effort to reach everyone across the organisation in the way that best suits them.

 

David Vineall, NDA group Chief People Officer and Executive sponsor of the Meno Hub, said: “We are thrilled to achieve accreditation, it’s testament to the work we are doing to support our colleagues, across the organisation, no matter which stage of their menopause journey they are in or how they are affected.

“Being an inclusive workplace brings huge benefits, for both staff and employers, and we will continue to take positive action to ensure all our NDA group colleagues are supported and feel their very best at work.”

 

Earlier this year the NDA group was also recognised at the Menopause Friendly Employer Awards, coming highly commended in the best support group category. Gillian Thomas, NDA Lead Programme Controls Manager, also won the community award category.

The Menopause Friendly Accreditation is industry-recognised and the only accreditation that sets clear standards which must be met. As such, it is truly meaningful and considered by many as a mark of excellence for menopause in the workplace.

 

Deborah Garlick, CEO and founder of Henpicked: Menopause in the Workplace, said: “The NDA is doing fantastic work around menopause in the workplace and richly deserves the Menopause Friendly Accreditation.

“Combining daily good practice led by its menopause champions with 24-7 access to guidance and advice on the Menohub ensures menopause awareness remains high and support is close at hand for employees experiencing menopause at work and those supporting a colleague.”

 

In order to achieve The Menopause Friendly Accreditation, employers are assessed by an Independent Panel and must demonstrate evidence of their effectiveness in six key areas, namely: culture, policies and practices, training, engagement, facilities and evaluation.

To find out more about how the NDA group is creating great places to work, read the NDA group inclusion strategy: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-nda-group-inclusion-strategy-2021-to-2025

 

 

Finance and Banking, Menopause, Menopause at work, News, Wellbeing at Work, Wellbeing News

BNP Paribas Corporate & Institutional Banking (CIB) UK awarded Menopause Friendly Accreditation

BNP Paribas Corporate & Institutional Banking (CIB) UK – provider of sustainably tailored financial services – has been awarded with The Menopause Friendly Accreditation. With a strong emphasis on risk and regulatory management for corporate and institutional clients worldwide, BNP Paribas aims to contribute to responsible and sustainable economy by financing and advising its clients according to the highest ethical standards.

BNP Paribas CIB UK has three offices in the UK: Dundee, Glasgow and London, its head office.  Its UK territory is one of over 50 countries in which CIB operates.  An employer who cares about wellbeing and understanding in the workplace, BNP Paribas is on a mission to continue to create an inclusive environment where its employees can be their best selves. They aim to ensure staff feel supported, enabling them to make informed choices that are right for them and their wellbeing.  It is this desire which led the organisation to work from being Menopause Friendly to achieving the Menopause Friendly Accreditation.

The Menopause Friendly Accreditation, established by Henpicked: Menopause in the Workplace (www.menopausefriendly.co.uk), recognises high standards and proven practices which embrace menopause in the workplace. To achieve the Menopause Friendly Accreditation, employers are assessed by an Independent Panel and must demonstrate evidence of their effectiveness in these six key areas: culture, policies and practices, training, engagement, facilities and evaluation.

In working towards accreditation, BNP Paribas highlighted three areas which have brought the most positive changes to their workforce: 

  • The implementation of a UK Menopause Policy
  • The introduction of unlimited Menopause GP appointments with HCA Roodlane Medical
  • The expansion of private medical provision to include benefit in relation to menopause symptoms

To complement these, the introduction of referral pathways between its providers Peppy & HCA Roodlane Medical, had the biggest impact on staff by creating seamless routes to care and support.

“The Menopause Friendly Accreditation provided internal recognition for the great work we have implemented within the menopause space,” says Ian Mackenzie, UK Head of Pension and Benefits. “Importantly, it also makes it clear to all staff that we are fully committed to supporting their wellbeing and take pride in providing an inclusive and caring environment.”

Ian offered advice to other organisations looking to start the journey to become Menopause Friendly, based on BNP Paribas’ experiences.  “Don’t be afraid to have gaps in your services. There is always more that can be done and we, alongside all other accredited companies, will have key areas of focus into 2024 and beyond. The accreditation process is just as much about helping you achieve your goals as well as validating any existing menopause offering.

“We were surprised at the detail of the application process,” continues Ian. “You can tell that a lot of hard work has gone in to make it as robust as possible. A key benefit of the process requiring so much evidence, is that you can take stock of what you have or don’t have in place. The whole process acts as a great gap analysis!”

Deborah Garlick, CEO and founder of Henpicked: Menopause in the Workplace, offered her congratulations, “The independent panel, which assesses all applications, was incredibly impressed by the range and depth of evidence which BNP Paribas CIB UK provided to support all the work they have been doing.  Whilst the accreditation is given to UK companies, I’m delighted to see BNP Paribas reach out to its sister territories around the world. Allowing them to be part of the learning journey, facilitate change and bring support to their employees shows tremendous vision.”