Menopause at Work policy launched at Berkeley
Coinciding with Menopause Awareness Day, The Berkeley Partnership launches its Menopause at Work policy to support employees across the firm.
The Berkeley Partnership has launched its Menopause at Work policy to raise awareness, and provide advice and support to employees, as part of its commitment to foster equity and inclusion across the firm.
Berkeley’s newly launched policy provides a range of workplace adjustments and support, including healthcare benefits, confidential counselling services, paid sick leave, and flexible working arrangements.
The policy is designed to:
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Raise awareness of menopause and its impact in the workplace
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Direct employees to relevant advice and assistance so they can carry out their daily role in a safe working environment, whether in the office or at home
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Enable open conversations between partners/managers and employees so Berkeley’s people feel supported and included.
In addition to supporting employees directly affected by menopause, the policy also aims to help those indirectly impacted by the experience of family members or others close to them.
Commenting on the policy launch, Ria Barnes, Head of People, said, “Berkeley is committed to supporting employees affected by menopause, both directly and indirectly, while recognising that everyone’s experience will be individual and highly personal. By providing appropriate assistance and resources, we want to ensure women can maintain their comfort, wellbeing and work performance.”
As a firm, we recognise that menopause is both a wellbeing and equity issue in the workplace, where a lack of understanding can exacerbate the negative effects that women often experience. UK research shows that among women who worked during menopause, one in ten have had to leave a job due to their symptoms. Our Menopause at Work policy is the latest initiative in our ongoing efforts to foster a truly inclusive and equitable workplace, ensuring talented women can thrive at every stage of their working lives.”
Sameera Simjee, partner and Women@Berkeley Network sponsor
The Menopause at Work policy launch is part of the firm’s wider Menopause Awareness Month programme. At a recent firm-wide meeting, Berkeley welcomed Liz Clayton-Jones, founder and director of Beehive Performance, as a guest speaker. The employee engagement expert, who offers business coaching services to women experiencing menopause, shared insights on common experiences and how employers can build a supportive working culture.
The Women@Berkeley Network also held a discussion group on women’s health, open to all women within the firm. The session provided an open forum for women to share their lived experiences, highlight good workplace support and practices, and raise potential opportunities for improvement.
