Insurance firm Axa UK, which employs around 10,000 members of staff, has been accredited as a menopause friendly employer.
The accreditation, which recognises inclusive employers that build awareness and understanding of how menopause can have an effect at work, was awarded after an independent panel of experts assessed its practices, policies and culture on behalf of organisation Menopause Friendly.
According to the panel, successful applicants must demonstrate dedication to providing a great place to work as well as an understanding of how menopause can affect staff, and have in place the right tools and support.
In order to achieve the accreditation, Axa UK implemented a menopause policy and support guide to assist employees experiencing the menopause, and to provide those around them with guidance, information and resources. The firm has pledged to continue to focus on the condition in an effort to further reduce stigma and make it easier to talk about in the workplace.
In addition, Axa UK introduced a smart working policy, guidance for managers on supporting staff, workshops and training sessions, and recruited around 20 menopause champions across multiple office locations. Their role is to encourage staff to engage and talk to each other, create a safe environment for discussions and help support a change in culture.
Tracy Garrad, CEO of Axa Health, and diversity and inclusion executive sponsor, said: “I’m very proud that Axa UK has been accredited as a Menopause Friendly employer. Helping our employees better understand and feel comfortable talking about menopause is the right thing to do. This accreditation paves the way for us to continue breaking the taboo and continue making menopause a topic that is talked about openly.”
Menopause Friendly Independent Panel member Jog Hundle added: “It’s clear they’ve created a culture where it’s easy to talk about menopause, demonstrating dedicated focus, training and resources consistently across the whole organisation.”