Bonnier Books UK is introducing a dedicated menopause policy to raise awareness in the workplace and better support affected employees.
The policy, which is inclusive of all gender identities including trans and non- binary employees, provides support to affected employees through guidance and direction and aims to raise awareness of the menopause amongst managers and staff.
The Menopause Charity reports that 9 out of 10 menopausal women say their symptoms impact their work and that one third of women hide their symptoms at work.
The policy will be supported with training for line managers and affected employees will be encouraged to discuss their symptoms with their line manager, the HR team or a representative from the company’s staff networks.
Anna MacLaren May, People Director, Bonnier Books UK, said:
“The menopause can be a stressful and difficult phase in someone’s life. This dedicated policy is a first step in raising awareness and creating a positive and supportive working environment for anyone who may be going through the menopause. Ultimately, we aim to create a working environment where those experiencing the menopause feel confident to raise issues about their symptoms and ask for adjustments at work, where these are needed.”
Perminder Mann, CEO, Bonnier Books UK, said:
“This is a much-needed policy and will help us to normalise conversations around menopause and break down the stigma that surrounds it.
I’m going through menopause currently and I’ve shared my experiences with industry peers and my management team in Sweden. It’s not an easy topic to raise, but it was important they understood the challenges that I’ve been facing and how these have affected my work. Thankfully, they couldn’t have been more accommodating and supportive.
I recognise that not everyone will feel able to share their experiences in this way. This is why organisations have a responsibility to talk about menopause openly, confronting the stigma that exists. The more we do this, the more people will feel able to reach out and ask for the support they need.”
