AtkinsRéalis has set a new precedent as the first UK engineering consultancy to receive Menopause Friendly Accreditation.
- The accolade was awarded due to their comprehensive policies supporting menopause-related needs.
- Notable initiatives include flexible working arrangements and a robust peer support network.
- Their efforts highlight an organisational commitment to inclusivity and the support of over 3,600 women employees.
- This achievement positions AtkinsRéalis as a pioneer in fostering a supportive workplace environment.
AtkinsRéalis has distinguished itself by being the first UK engineering consultancy to be accredited as Menopause Friendly. This recognition, awarded by Henpicked: Menopause Friendly Accreditation, comes after a thorough evaluation by an independent panel. The assessment affirmed AtkinsRéalis’s dedication to fostering a workplace culture that extensively supports those affected by menopause.
The company has implemented various policies and practices specifically aimed at addressing menopause-related challenges. These include the introduction of flexible working arrangements and provisions for reasonable adjustments to the workplace environment. The firm’s commitment ensures that employees experiencing menopause receive appropriate support that enables them to continue contributing effectively.
A significant aspect of AtkinsRéalis’s strategy involves creating and nurturing a peer support network consisting of 700 members. This initiative has included providing training and resources aimed at enhancing awareness and understanding across the organisation. An employee commented positively on the initiative, noting the inclusive environment that encourages participation from men, fostering wider understanding and support: “The AtkinsRéalis menopause forum was without bias and it was especially encouraging to see men taking an interest. It gives men and younger women an opportunity to not only be informed about and accept our symptoms, but support us through them.”
Andy Finch, managing director and menopause network sponsor, articulated the firm’s dedication: “As an employer of more than 3,600 women in the UK, we have a responsibility to have visible initiatives and networks in place to share how we are supporting staff around menopause. Our Menopause Friendly Accreditation demonstrates that we are already complying with the new Government’s commitment to require all companies with over 250 employees to produce a Menopause Action Plan.”
The recognition by Henpicked has been lauded by Deborah Garlick, CEO and founder of Henpicked: Menopause in the Workplace, for its effectiveness and the organisation’s engagement with all staff, including men and younger colleagues. This approach sets a benchmark within the engineering industry, potentially inspiring similar organisations to adopt such inclusive practices.
Earlier in 2024, AtkinsRéalis was also awarded the Clear Assured Platinum Standard by the Clear Company for its progress in equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) initiatives. This accolade underlines their long-standing commitment to inclusivity, marking them as the first engineering firm to achieve this standard. Despite these advancements, industry reports indicate a decrease in the proportion of women in engineering roles, highlighting ongoing challenges in achieving gender parity.
AtkinsRéalis’s initiatives set a new standard in workplace inclusivity, particularly in supporting menopausal employees.
