The John Lewis Partnership has been awarded Menopause Friendly Employer accreditation by Menopause Friendly’s independent panel.
According to the panel, the partnership has received the accreditation as it created an inclusive culture where all members of staff can talk about the menopause, and women are given the support they need.
The business, which employs more than 42,000 women, introduced a holistic package of support for employees at all stages of the menopause, which includes guidance for managers, nutrition, health information and advice, access to free mental health support, and support from its in-house occupational health and wellbeing team. It also updated its flexible working and time off policies, with dedicated support available to staff experiencing the condition.
Lene Wood, a partner at John Lewis’ Kingston store, said: “I began to notice a huge change in how I was feeling in my mid-50s, and thought that other partners might be going through [something] similar, so I started a monthly ‘#HotFlushChat’. It was a support space where partners affected by the menopause could come and speak openly about how they were feeling and share helpful tips.
“It’s great to see that the business is doing so much to support those affected by the menopause, including an informative menopause site, health practitioners to talk to and a flexible policy to support and retain partners.”
Carolyn Harris MP, chair of All Party Parliamentary Group on Menopause, added: “Workplace support is vital for those experiencing symptoms of the menopause and I welcome the commitment that The John Lewis Partnership have made to their employees. By introducing some simple changes employers like The John Lewis Partnership will benefit from being able to retain experienced and loyal employees at the peak of their careers.
“It is wonderful to see the menopause finally being taken seriously and I am delighted that the commitment that The John Lewis Partnership have made, has been recognised and that they have been accredited as a menopause friendly employer.”