HCRG Care Group shortlisted for national diversity and inclusion award
HCRG Care Group is celebrating after being shortlisted for the Best Employer for Diversity and Inclusion Award in the Nursing Times Workforce Awards 2023.
This recognises the innovative support package that the organisation has put in to place to support colleagues going through the menopause, as part of the healthcare provider’s commitment to maintaining a happy, healthy workforce.
Over half of the HCRG Care Group workforce are females within the age group likely to be experiencing menopause. At an employee engagement event in 2022, the topic of menopause was brought up by colleagues wanting to see more internal recognition of this issue. The project sought to create a comprehensive package of support specifically tailored for colleagues going through the menopause. Recognising the unique challenges and needs faced by individuals, the project aimed to develop resources and initiatives to address concerns effectively.
Over the last 12 months the organisation has:
- Invested £10,000, through its Innovation Fund, to enable colleagues to get free Hormonal Replacement Therapy (HRT) prescriptions as part of a pilot scheme, and this has now become business as usual.
- Established quarterly menopause cafes were introduced to allow staff to discuss the topic in an open and safe environment, along with providing a space for other colleagues to gain further knowledge on how to support peers in the workplace.
- Developed a policy guide for colleagues and their managers which includes information about what menopause is, the physical and psychological symptoms, treatment available including HRT and natural remedies, lifestyle tips and recommendations for external support including TV documentaries, podcasts and websites.
Paul Lundbeck, Director of People Services said: “We are delighted to have received this recognition for the work we have done to support colleagues going through the menopause, and in helping to educate the wider workforce about issues surrounding the menopause. This is part of our ongoing work to ensure that our colleagues are able to bring their best selves to work and champion our organisation as a great place to work.”
You can read more about the menopause support package here
The winners of this year’s awards will be announced at the Nursing Times Workforce and Summit Awards on Tuesday 21 November.
