Celebrating menopause friendly accreditation: Stockport NHS Foundation Trust, E.ON, and Organix Brands Ltd

Essen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany - May 13, 2019: Headquarters of E.ON SE in Essen, Germany - E.ON is one of the world's largest investor-owned electric utility service providers

In honour of the recent World Menopause Day, we’re celebrating the remarkable achievements of three organisations—Stockport NHS Foundation Trust, E.ON, and Organix Brands Ltd—who have each been awarded the prestigious Menopause Friendly Accreditation. This recognition, established by Henpicked: Menopause in the Workplace, highlights their commitment to creating supportive environments for employees navigating menopause.

Stockport NHS Foundation Trust

Stockport NHS Foundation Trust, which operates Stepping Hill Hospital and various community clinics across Stockport, has made significant strides to support its predominantly female workforce aged 45-55. The introduction of a dedicated menopause clinic has been a game changer, as noted by Sara Wilson, Head of Staff Wellbeing and Occupational Health. “This took a good deal of time, organisation and effort but we fervently believe it is worth it. It is having a really beneficial impact on workforce retention levels, productivity, absenteeism, and, very importantly, patient care.”

To achieve the Menopause Friendly Accreditation, the Trust had to demonstrate effectiveness in key areas: culture, policies and practices, training, engagement, and working environment. The establishment of a Staff Facebook group and café for menopause discussions has encouraged openness, while optional lighter uniforms reflect the Trust’s commitment to employee comfort.

Jackie McShane, Executive Director of Operations, expressed pride in this achievement, stating, “As well as being the right thing to do by our colleagues experiencing menopause, it is also helping us to be a more productive and capable care provider for our local community.”

E.ON

E.ON has proudly maintained its position as the UK’s first menopause-friendly energy company since 2017. The recent accreditation underscores its ongoing dedication to fostering an inclusive workplace. Kirin Kalsi, Director of Legal Compliance and Menopause Matters Lead Sponsor at E.ON, remarked, “Achieving this accreditation reflects our ongoing dedication to creating an inclusive workplace.”

The process included comprehensive training for employees and managers, ensuring policies are inclusive of menopausal needs. Deborah Garlick, CEO of Henpicked, highlighted E.ON’s pioneering role in workplace menopause awareness, stating, “They are hugely deserving of their Menopause Friendly Accreditation.”

Organix Brands Ltd

Organix Brands Ltd, renowned for creating nutritious children’s food, has also received the Menopause Friendly Accreditation. Lucy Critchley, HR Advisor, emphasised the importance of fostering a supportive environment for all employees. “We want our employees, and people who are thinking of working for the company, to know that we take this subject seriously,” she stated.

Through open conversations about menopause and comprehensive training for people managers, Organix has successfully made menopause a taboo-free topic. Their strategy has encouraged participation from male colleagues, enhancing workplace understanding and support.

The urgent need for menopause-friendly policies

A recent report from HR consultancy hoomph highlights the urgent need for businesses to adopt menopause-friendly policies. Surveying 1,000 women, it revealed that nearly two in five reported battling anxiety and almost a quarter experienced depression. Alarmingly, only 5% felt supported by their employers. These statistics underscore the critical importance of creating inclusive and supportive workplaces where employees can thrive through all life stages.

As we celebrate these organisations’ achievements, let their commitment to supporting employees through menopause serve as a model for others. Together, we can break the stigma surrounding menopause and foster an environment of understanding and support for all.

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