Menopause Policy | Committed to Supporting Our Team

There are currently around 13 million peri or menopausal women in the UK – equivalent to a third of the entire UK female population. And with three quarters of businesses claiming not to have a Menopause Policy, it’s clear that more must be done to support those undergoing this life-changing experience.

At Zen, employee wellbeing has always - and will continue to be - our absolute priority. Our MD, Rhi explores why introducing a dedicated policy was the natural next step in ensuring we’re providing an inclusive, supportive and nurturing environment for our team:

“Menopause can have a significant impact on an individual – from physical symptoms such as hot flushes and an inability to sleep to mental and emotional symptoms such as anxiety, poor concentration, and loss of confidence. And just like any other health and wellbeing concern, it’s vital that it’s dealt with sensitively and with genuine care and consideration.

“Ensuring the holistic wellbeing of our entire team is at the heart of everything we do. We’ve implemented a bespoke Menopause Policy for the business dedicated to completely and entirely supporting those going through any stage of the menopause, whilst also educating the entire team about what it is, the symptoms it may present, and the potential impact it may have on those they work alongside. Together, we’re striving to remove the stigma by providing a safe space to talk freely and openly about the menopause and how individuals may be feeling, without judgement, embarrassment or fear.

Why have you created a Menopause Policy?

“As a predominantly female workforce, we understand that our employees may experience significant life events during their career with us – including the menopause. We want every team member to always feel understood, included, and safe.

“It’s paramount that we provide relevant and appropriate support to all and any member of the Zen team to effectively manage symptoms while at work (and home, too!). We want our employees to be happy and healthy, and still feel able to achieve and succeed. While each case will be treated individually, and with complete confidentiality, this could include amending hours, altering their role, providing additional support, reducing workload, or signposting to professional advice or help.

What does the Menopause Policy set out to achieve?

“The policy is dedicated to supporting those undergoing the menopause (and/or perimenopause or post-menopause) by aiming to:

• Recognise that the menopause is not a one-off event, but a significant stage of a person’s life and should not be a taboo subject

• Promote awareness amongst all Zen employees of the menopause and its potential effects on the individual experiencing it

• Set out guidelines on how we will support employees undergoing the menopause

“Plus, we’ve also signed up to the Wellbeing of Women Menopause Pledge, which encourages businesses to take positive action to ensure those going through the menopause are supported.

How will this impact the future of Zen?

“This policy demonstrates our commitment to supporting our team members through any life event, and to doing everything in our power to ensure their wellbeing is optimised.

“It will enable us to continue to evolve, improve, and assist our team – listening to their needs to positively and effectively drive change. Not only will we continue to stand out as providing stellar support to our team, but we hope it will enhance employee retention even further, as all members should feel absolutely, genuinely, and entirely empowered and in control in all aspects of work (and life).

“But we’re also encouraging other businesses – both regionally and nationally – to follow suit and do the same. We shouldn’t be the exception – this offering should absolutely be a standard that women can expect employers to respect and adopt into the workplace, irrespective of size or sector.”