Avara Foods has been accredited as a ‘menopause friendly employer’. After a two year process, Avara said it demonstrated its ongoing commitment to workplace inclusivity.
The Menopause Friendly Accreditation was established by Henpicked and recognises high standards that support employees. To achieve the Menopause Friendly Accreditation, Avara was assessed by an independent panel and expected to provide evidence and demonstrate the impact and effectiveness of its approach across five key areas – culture, policies and practices, training, engagement and working environment.
Avara’s menopause mission statement is ‘to be a leading employer in supporting colleagues with the menopause through a supportive and inclusive culture, creating a safe place to talk, to care and to understand’. Avara said recognising the symptoms can have a significant impact physically and mentally.
Andy Dawkins, Avara Foods’ chief executive, said: “With menopause now a mainstream topic and the importance of workplaces being supportive to all employees, Avara is proud to be a part of a network of businesses that are leading change in creating a supportive and caring workplace. Recognising the menopause is an issue in the workplace for many women, it is imperative there is a strong commitment to being an employer that ensures everyone feels safe in their workplace and cares about physical and mental wellbeing.”
Deborah Garlick, chief executive and founder of Henpicked, said: “Avara Foods’ approach to being Menopause Friendly is most impressive as it has extended its experience and insight beyond its own organisation and into its wider communities. The cascading effect of menopause friendly behaviour out of workplaces to stakeholders, customers and networks reflects well on organisations. Meanwhile, the positive impact of menopause friendly trained people in wider societies is powerful.”