NHS Business Services Authority (NHSBSA) has achieved menopause-friendly accreditation from organisation Henpicked: Menopause In The Workplace.
In order to receive accreditation, the NHSBSA presented evidence to an independent panel, outlining its effectiveness in terms of culture, policies and practices, training, engagement, facilities and evaluation.
The authority was awarded for creating an inclusive culture, where members of staff feel able to talk about the menopause and are given the support they need at all stages of their menopause journey.
To do this, NHSBSA set up a menopause champion network, a group of male and female trained volunteers who support others through their training and lived experiences, as well as guidance and training for managers, access to mental health support and monthly virtual menopause cafés run by the champions. These were tailored to take lived experiences into account, such as the session held during Black History Month, which focused on the challenges and experiences of minority ethnic staff.
Michael Brodie, chief executive at NHS Business Services Authority, said: “For far too long the menopause has been a taboo subject in society. With the help of our staff support menopause network we want to create a level playing field, so that the menopause doesn’t hold employees back at an age when many are at the peak of their career. To achieve this, together we’re creating an environment in which workers and their managers feel comfortable talking about it, so that we can offer support.
“In particular, I want to thank our menopause champions, who work to support, signpost and enable open conversations, and the many staff who’ve joined our cafés, shared their own personal journeys and encouraged others to do the same.”
So far this year, various other employers have achieved menopause-friendly accreditation, including West Ham United earlier this month, and the Alzheimer's Society in January. In January, the government rejected proposed measures to legislate for support around menopause in the workplace, including a suggested dedicated leave allowance for those experiencing the symptoms.
