RSA reaffirmed its dedication to promoting menopause support in the workplace during a recent engagement with Annelise Dodds MP (pictured above), the Shadow Women and Equalities Secretary and Chair of the Labour Party.
Dodds’ party introduced a policy earlier this year that requires large employers to develop and execute a Menopause Action Plan, outlining support measures for employees experiencing menopausal symptoms. RSA welcomed the MP and her team to its Liverpool office to discuss these efforts.
RSA colleagues who played pivotal roles in crafting the insurer's menopause guidelines were present at the event, including Yasemin Dogu, chief auditor and executive sponsor of the RSA Families Employee Resource Group, and Gemma Jackson, UK&I head of diversity, equity and inclusion.
The meeting highlighted RSA’s commitment to supporting colleagues during the menopausal transition, building on the accreditation it earned in October 2022 as a menopause-friendly employer.
As part of this achievement, RSA developed comprehensive guidelines for both employees and leaders on how to approach discussions about menopause in the workplace and where to find appropriate support. These efforts also include the establishment of a team of 40 advocates who received specialised training to deepen their understanding of menopause, organising monthly menopause support cafes to foster open discussions, and launching menopause and andropause absence analysis to gauge its impact on colleagues.
“We’re delighted to have the opportunity to discuss this crucial work with Anneliese Dodds MP,” said Jackson. “It underscores the importance of recognising menopause as a genuine concern that impacts individuals not only in the workplace but also their partners at home, requiring the need for comprehensive education and awareness efforts. We look forward to continued discussions with senior politicians to champion this important cause and we’re committed to serving as a hub within the insurance industry, listening, and learning from the experiences of other insurers.”
In addition to its focus on menopause support, RSA has implemented various policies dedicated to fostering a safe and inclusive work environment. Last month, the insurer proudly became a member of the Group for Autism, Insurance, Investment, and Neurodiversity (GAIN), signalling its commitment to supporting neurodiverse individuals in the insurance, investment, and related financial services industry.
RSA has also introduced a domestic abuse policy in 2021 to support colleagues dealing with issues at home, including paid leave for those in need. Furthermore, it launched a carers’ leave policy in January to assist colleagues with significant caregiving responsibilities for dependents.
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