Engineering consultancy firm AtkinsRéalis has become a menopause-friendly employer as part of its position as a business dedicated to inclusive workplace practices and policies.
Established by industry experts Henpicked, the accreditation sets and assesses clear and high standards. To achieve it, AtkinsRéalis was assessed by an independent panel and was required to provide evidence of effectiveness in the areas of culture, policies and practices, training, engagement, and working environment.
The firm was recognised due to its comprehensive approach to menopause support, which included establishing a dedicated menopause network with 700 members that provides peer-to-peer support, and developing policies and practices that address menopause-related needs, such as flexible working and requests for reasonable adjustments.
It has also provided training and resources to increase awareness and understanding, and created a supportive and inclusive working environment. Its menopause support is part of its global equality, diversity and inclusion programme and builds on its commitment to foster an inclusive workplace that supports all employees throughout their careers.
Andy Finch, menopause network sponsor and Managing Director - aerospace, defence, security and technology, at AtkinsRéalis, said: “As an employer of more than 3,600 women in the UK, we have a responsibility to have visible initiatives and networks in place to share how we are supporting staff around menopause. Our menopause-friendly accreditation demonstrates that we are already complying with the new government’s commitment to require all employers with more than 250 employees to produce a menopause action plan.”
Deborah Garlick, chief executive officer and founder of Henpicked: Menopause in the Workplace, said: “I applaud the excellent efforts of AtkinsRealis in achieving the menopause-friendly accreditation. Particularly impressive is how the organisation has engaged all staff in the conversation, recognising the importance of bringing men and younger employees on board. It is setting a strong example to the engineering industry and I hope others will be inspired by what it is doing.”
