What is the Women in the Workplace Accreditation?
The Women in the Workplace Accreditation is a programme and certification scheme developed by Pregnant Then Screwed and Best Beginnings. It offers employers specialised access to training on reproductive health in the workplace, including crucial support for managing pregnancy loss and infertility. This accreditation formally recognises companies that demonstrate a sustained commitment to gender equality through their culture, policies, and practices.
The comprehensive assessment covers various aspects of a company’s approach to supporting its female workforce, including recruitment, retention, career progression, and the provision of a nurturing and encouraging working environment.
As a pilot programme this accreditation is valid for one year.
Why did Rothera Bray pursue this accreditation?
Being family-friendly and embracing equality and diversity are integral to our culture. We deeply respect an employee’s choice to have a family or take time out for caregiving without it impacting their career progression adversely.
A World Health Organization (WHO) report revealed that one in six people worldwide experience infertility, with many working women facing negative and discriminatory treatment due to a lack of understanding around fertility and pregnancy issues. We strive to create an environment where our staff feel comfortable and supported in discussing such issues, ensuring that their careers are not jeopardised by family planning or fertility challenges.
We believe in being a fair and supportive employer. This accreditation, alongside new policy developments, reinforces our commitment to these values.
How did Rothera Bray achieve the Women in the Workplace Accreditation?
Last June, Pregnant Then Screwed, in collaboration with Best Beginnings, launched a pilot programme funded by DHSC to help employers address reproductive health issues more effectively and identify fertility-friendly practices. Rothera Bray’s team leaders and HR Manager participated in this pilot project, undergoing six months of training that included six modules on pregnancy, fertility, pregnancy loss, hybrid/flexible working, and eliminating bias.
Following the completion of these modules, our HR Manager and two team leaders participated in an interview to validate their learning and provide feedback. This led to the approval of our accreditation.
What does this accreditation mean for our employees?
This accreditation highlights our unwavering support for working parents and those planning to start families. It reinforces our commitment to aiding employees through significant and sometimes challenging life events. We aim to foster an environment where our staff feel supported, encouraged to communicate openly, and create awareness that everyone has unique ways of coping with difficult circumstances.
What other initiatives does Rothera Bray provide to support women in the workplace?
- Maternity Policy: we offer enhanced maternity pay at 100% of an employee’s full pay for the first 12 weeks of maternity leave.
- Flexible and Hybrid Work Options: we provide flexible and hybrid working arrangements to help our employees balance their personal and professional commitments.
- Menopause Policy: our Menopause Policy raises awareness about menopause and its impact on the workplace, promoting open conversations and directing staff to relevant advice and support.
We’re incredibly proud of our team members who participated in the training and view this accreditation as a pivotal step in advancing our family-friendly policies.
