Linklaters has introduced a global menopause policy and support package for staff either directly or indirectly impacted by the condition.
The initiative has been launched to raise awareness of the menopause, as well as outlining the enhanced support and resources available for those affected. It will also reinforce Linklaters’ Gender and Age and Life Stage strategies, by helping to retain and support women of all ages into senior roles.
According to the firm, the package builds on its commitment to a supportive and inclusive culture and will expand its menopause support group globally, facilitating open discussions and encouraging people to share experiences.
It has also introduced an e-learning module for staff across the firm with management or supervisory responsibilities, created a dedicated resource hub to raise awareness, educate and support those experiencing the menopause, as well as those supporting a partner or family member, rolled out the Peppy Health app to provide online UK support, and enhanced its UK private medical insurance (PMI) scheme with Axa Health to cover specialist consultations for conditions relating to the menopause.
Jessamy Gallagher, executive committee champion for Age and Life Stage, explained that the firm’s ambition is to be the best for diversity and inclusion in the legal sector, and as such it is committed to having a culture that supports staff health and wellbeing.
Gallagher added: “Menopause symptoms can have a detrimental impact on anybody living with them, and their working lives are not exempt from that. It can also indirectly affect anyone, including those supporting a partner or family member living through the menopause.
“People should not have to navigate the menopause in silence. I hope that our policy and enhanced support will encourage open discussion and further strengthen our culture of openness and our commitment to caring for our people at every stage of their lives.”