Nuclear Waste Services (NWS) has been awarded menopause-friendly accreditation as a result of its commitment to staff education, information and engagement with the condition.
A subsidiary of the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority, which is also menopause-friendly accredited, NWS is responsible for the management and disposal of the UK’s nuclear waste.
In order to achieve accreditation, which was established by Henpicked: Menopause In The Workplace, the employer was required to demonstrate its effectiveness in the areas of culture, policies and practices, training, engagement and working environment.
The organisation was recognised due to its number of menopause champions who have helped increase staff engagement, as well as its manager and employee awareness sessions that focus on the importance of having empathetic conversations and signposting to support.
It also provides access to free period products in the workplace, partnered with Hey Girls! to support staff, local schools, food banks and community groups, and prioritises employee education and information, which is supported at senior leadership level.
The organisation believes the accreditation highlights that it is serious about creating a workplace that is supportive of anyone who goes through the menopause to potential and current employees, its supply chain, stakeholders, and communities.
Nigel Lister, executive director of safety, security, health, environment and quality at NWS, said: “This recognition is the culmination of over two years’ work for our dedicated Polly, Gill and Kelly, who have been leading on this. They have really bought NWS a long way, greatly improving awareness and providing our employees with information on how we can all support each other through the menopause transition.
“Our whole journey has been paramount to ensure that everyone, whether directly or indirectly affected, is educated and supported within a safe and empathetic workplace. We still have more work to do, but now have a firm foundation having created an environment where menopause is an inclusive topic that everyone feels comfortable talking about.”
