Energy supplier Ovo has been awarded menopause-friendly accreditation in recognition of its support for employees who are going through perimenopause and the menopause.
In order to achieve accreditation, which was developed by Henpicked: Menopause In The Workplace, employers are assessed on their effectiveness in the areas of culture, policies and practices, training, engagement, and working environment by an independent panel. Their high standards and proven practices that embrace menopause in the workplace are also recognised.
Ovo was recognised by the menopause-friendly panel due to its approach to supporting employees affected by perimenopause and the menopause. This included training 30 menopause champions, who work over all areas of the business and are available to support staff when needed, and its A+ rated breathable uniforms and period packs for field-based staff, as well as free leggings and underwear for office-based employees.
As a result of its supportive approach, Ovo has been named as a finalist in the best peer-to-peer support group category at the Menopause Friendly Employer Awards 2024, due to take place this week.
Kirsteen Sommerville, menopause lead at Ovo, said: “At Ovo, we have a culture of inclusion and belonging where we put people first and actively encourage everyone to be themselves. This is rooted in our belief that happy people are more engaged and also feel better equipped to do their job well. We work tirelessly to create a supportive working environment where everyone is heard and feels valued.
“Menopause can be a challenging time for so many people and I’m really proud of the menopause network that we have set up where we strive to support each other to be our best selves every day. Achieving the menopause-friendly accreditation is a real honour and I am delighted to see menopause-positive employers being recognised in this way.”
