With the pandemic leaving many families facing increased pressures and demands, wellbeing resources and support have become more and more important for forward thinking employers.
One such employer who is consistently demonstrating their commitment to employee wellbeing is retailer John Lewis Partnership.
Setting a benchmark
Last Autumn they introduced a new package of support for Partners (employees) which saw them become the first UK retailer to introduce 26 weeks equal parenthood paid maternity and paternity leave. They also offer 2 weeks of paid leave for any Partner who experiences the loss of a pregnancy.
Sharon White, Chairman of the John Lewis Partnership, said:
“As an employee-owned business, equality matters to us. We want John Lewis and Waitrose to be a place for everyone and for people from all walks of life to feel valued so they can thrive in our business.
“We want to be there for our Partners to support them in important life moments, whether that’s stepping into the world of work for the first time, or becoming a parent.”
John Lewis Partnership also started pilot schemes that support young people leaving the care system to find employment. This is another example of how they ‘contribute to the wellbeing of communities in which [they] operate’ – one of the guiding principles from their constitution.
Inclusive wellbeing
More recently, in July of this year, John Lewis Partnership was recognised as being a Menopause Friendly Employer. This is an accreditation awarded for creating an inclusive culture where everyone feels able to talk about the menopause and women are given the support they need.
They join other Menopause Friendly employers such as AXA and Clifford Chance, recognising the importance of normalising the conversation around women’s health and including it as part of their wellbeing strategy.
Carolyn Harris MP, Chair of All Party Parliamentary Group on Menopause said:
“Workplace support is vital for those experiencing symptoms of the menopause and I welcome the commitment that The John Lewis Partnership has made to their employees. Too many women have suffered due to a lack of understanding from their employers and we know that one in ten menopausal women have felt forced to leave the workforce as a result. By introducing some simple changes employers like The John Lewis Partnership will benefit from being able to retain experienced and loyal employees at the peak of their careers. It is wonderful to see the menopause finally being taken seriously and I am delighted that the commitment that The John Lewis Partnership has made, has been recognised and that they have been accredited as a Menopause Friendly Employer.”
Continuing in this inclusive pattern of wellbeing support, this month the John Lewis Partnership has announced that it will offer resources on fertility, pregnancy, parenthood, nutrition and more, giving access to expert help via video calls and workshops, along with providing a community of like minded people.
Health & Wellbeing Development Manager Stacey MacDougall, said:
“We want our Partners to be happy and have a wide range of resources available to support their wellbeing.”
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