MENOPAUSE in the Workplace accreditation has been awarded to Specsavers, recognising the healthcare retailer as a business which supports colleagues through effective and comprehensive training.
The Menopause Friendly Accreditation, established by Henpicked: Menopause in the workplace (www.menopausefriendly.co.uk), recognises high standards and proven practices that embrace menopause in the workplace.
In 2022, Specsavers launched MenoTalk; a colleague-led menopause community network which provides members with a safe space to discuss, listen and share their menopause experiences. The group has been pivotal in bringing the colleague training to life and regularly meet to share feedback to help build a menopause-friendly working environment.
MenoTalk group co-chairs, Louise Furby and Carolin Millken are proud of the achievement; ‘We set up our MenoTalk colleague group to give everyone affected by menopause a safe, confidential space where members can share experiences and get practical advice. Being awarded the Menopause in the Workplace accreditation is testament to the supportive environment this has created. We look forward to continuing to expand on the advice, support, and education throughout the business.’
The accreditation is industry-recognised and the only accreditation that sets clear standards which must be met. As such, it is truly meaningful and considered by many as a mark of excellence for menopause in the workplace.
To achieve the accreditation, employers are assessed by an independent panel and must demonstrate evidence of their effectiveness in six key areas: culture, policies and practices, training, engagement, facilities, and evaluation.
Deborah Garlick, founder and CEO of Henpicked: Menopause in the Workplace says: ‘Specsavers has done exceptionally well to achieve the Menopause Friendly Accreditation and deserve credit for the success of its MenoTalk programme. We know that open discussions, supportive conversations and creating a psychologically safe environment are key to making lasting and meaningful change for colleagues. I have no doubt that Specsavers colleagues will feel the benefit of it being a menopause friendly employer and hope this positivity will cascade to its customer community as well.’
