Empowering Conversations: Punch Pubs & Co commitment to menopause support at work
Punch Pubs & Co have made a commitment to create a supportive and inclusive environment for menopause discussions in the workplace, setting a positive example for the wider industry.
Rebecca Davies, Operations Manager, reflects on how the company has committed to empowering employees and Publicans to discuss menopause openly and confidently.
How did Punch Pubs & Co start providing menopause support in the workplace?
The journey began in 2021 when we realised the lack of information and provision around menopause. We initiated conversations and increased awareness within our company and the wider pub industry.
Recognising the diverse needs of our field and office-based employees as well as our Publicans, we strived to be inclusive in our support efforts.
Starting with sharing personal experiences through internal channels like ‘The Huddle’, we encouraged open dialogue and normalised discussions about menopause.
What additional initiatives have Punch Pubs & Co implemented for their employees and Publicans?
We have enhanced internal policies, established a women’s wellbeing group with a menopause and menstrual health lead, trained menopause champions, introduced a menopause policy, provided line manager training, and adopted BSI menopause and menstrual health standards.
We have also hosted webinars, curated resources, and produced podcasts featuring experts in the field. These efforts aim to raise awareness, educate, and provide tangible support to our employees and Publicans.
Have there been any challenges in providing menopause support, and how has Punch Pubs & Co addressed them?
One of the challenges faced was the dissemination of information. To overcome this, we utilised internal and external communication channels to make menopause support more accessible and visible within our pub community.
Events like ‘Menovist’ gatherings have been instrumental in raising awareness and connecting individuals with available support.
The journey from initial conversations to the current approach has empowered our workforce to discuss menopause openly and confidently.