UK law firm Ashfords has become the eighth law firm to achieve the Menopause Friendly Accreditation, which differentiates employers who have demonstrated the positive impact of their actions in supporting people experiencing menopause.
The Menopause Friendly Accreditation was established by Henpicked: Menopause In The Workplace in 2021 to certify high standards and proven practices that embrace menopause in the workplace. Industry-recognised and the only accreditation that sets clear standards which must be met, the Menopause Friendly Accreditation is truly meaningful and considered as a mark of excellence for menopause in the workplace.
In order to achieve the Menopause Friendly Accreditation, Ashfords was assessed by an independent panel and had to demonstrate evidence of its effectiveness in five key areas, namely: culture, policies and practices, training, engagement and working environment.
Ashfords has a dedicated menopause support group which raises awareness and drives firmwide initiatives to support its people experiencing menopause. The group provides practical guidance and encourages open conversation to help break the stigma around the menopause.
Clare Jackman, partner, who leads Ashfords’ Diversity Group and accreditation project group, said: "We're proud to become one of the first ten firms in the UK to achieve the Menopause Friendly Accreditation. At Ashfords, we believe our strength lies in our people - the way we collaborate, support one another, and celebrate success. Becoming a Menopause Friendly accredited employer is a natural next step in our journey to ensure our people feel seen, supported, and empowered to thrive."
Deborah Garlick, CEO of Henpicked: Menopause in the Workplace said: “Ashfords impressed the Independent Panel with its powerful story of commitment and progress alongside evidence of impact within its working environment. Particularly impressive are its inclusive policy and comprehensive manager guide which both demonstrate thoughtful planning and purpose. It is so good to see senior leaders actively engaged and the 3 Men and the Menopause podcast stood out as an excellent initiative.
Ashfords knows that the Menopause Friendly Accreditation is part of the journey, not the destination, and recognises that training and a pro-active approach must continue to keep the topic uppermost in people’s minds. A good example of how they’ve approached this was to roll out some e-learning during Menopause Awareness Month making the most of raised awareness nationally.”
Ashfords has several inclusion initiatives across the firm providing an opportunity for people to come together, help shape engagement, raise awareness and lead associated educational initiatives to help deliver an inclusive and supportive environment at Ashfords. Inclusion groups across the firm include social mobility, neurodiversity, gender and sexuality, a fertility group as well as the menopause group.
To find out more about the Menopause Friendly Accreditation, visit www.menopausefriendly.co.uk.
