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HarperCollins has announced a new menopause policy, designed to support staff experiencing symptoms as well as help colleagues and managers understand how they can assist those going through the menopause or perimenopause.
In May 2019 the publisher launched its Menopause at Work network group which now has 60 members. In October this year it was one of the first companies, alongside Bupa, Tesco, PwC and Santander, to sign the Wellbeing of Women Menopause Workplace Pledge, launched by the Countess of Wessex. The pledge sees employers commit to recognising that the menopause can be an issue in the workplace and those experiencing symptoms need support. It requires companies to talk openly, positively and respectfully about the menopause and actively support and inform employees affected by it.
Throughout October, HarperCollins, in partnership with News UK, will hold a series of events to further educate, support and raise awareness of the menopause. The first event, Menopause 101 featuring GP Dr Bella Smith and ex-Team GB rower Baz Moffat from women’s health experts The Well, took place last week.
Menopause at Work network member Lisa Spiller said: "Being part of an organisation that recognises women’s health is important. It’s been eye-opening (in a good way) to have been part of the HC Menopause at Work group for the past couple of years. The support and advice (and laughs) we share is truly fantastic. Now, with the introduction of the HarperCollins menopause policy we’ll be able help spread the word that menopause affects everyone and let people know that there is a safe space for open discussions."
John Athanasiou, director of people, added: "Menopausal employees are the fastest-growing workplace demographic. Most of those will, at some point, experience the menopause, and have symptoms that can be difficult to cope with at work. We continually strive to have a supportive culture at HarperCollins and by issuing this policy I hope we can build awareness of menopause, so that we are all more equipped to offer the support, advice and understanding menopausal colleagues may need."