The MCF and RMBI are among the most Menopause-Friendly organisations in the UK
The Masonic Charitable Foundation (MCF, the Freemasons’ charity) and the RMBI Care Co. have been named as being among the most menopause-friendly organisations in Britain, as they were awarded official Menopause Friendly Accreditation by the Henpicked website.
The Menopause Friendly Accreditation, established by Henpicked: Menopause in the Workplace, recognises high standards and proven practices.
Both the MCF and the RMBI were assessed by an independent panel established by Henpicked and demonstrated evidence of their effectiveness in six key areas: culture, policies and practices, training, engagement, facilities and evaluation.
The two charities are rightly proud of their success in achieving this accreditation.
“Being supportive and caring is our way of life. Our staff are our biggest asset, so we are always looking at how we can support their health and wellbeing. Approximately 84 per cent of our workforce is female and we wanted to create a culture where menopause can be openly discussed and not treated as a taboo subject. This means everyone feeling comfortable in conversations, understanding how they may be affected themselves and the impact menopause may have on their colleagues and families. We want them to be empowered; to feel they can access medical and other support whenever they have a need.
The two areas that have had the most impact in terms of support and engagement, are:
- Having a meaningful Menopause Policy which is supported with Line Manager guidance and training
- Providing Wellbeing Baskets including leaflets, menstruation products, deodorant, moisturiser/skin products targeted for individuals experiencing the menopause.
They understood how important it is to start the conversation, something that many organisations can find difficult. They were also not afraid to ask other organisations for their experience in becoming Menopause Friendly and now they, in turn, can help others. That sharing of experience and ideas is so important. I was particularly heartened to hear about male colleagues in the charities who said how much being Menopause Friendly had helped them in managing their female teams as well as in their personal lives when understanding and giving support to partners, family members and friends.
