Boots is set to cover the cost of hormone replacement treatment (HRT) prescriptions for employees from April this year in a major menopause package initiative.
The move to support team members experiencing menopausal symptoms by removing prescription costs could help them save up to £224 per year, according to the retailer.
The company said it was invested in fostering an inclusive and open workplace culture by fighting the “taboo” aspect of menopause.
“I am delighted to announce that Boots is breaking down the barriers to accessing HRT medication and that we will offer this significant support option to team members who may be experiencing menopausal symptoms,” said HR director Ben Horner.
“Women make up the majority of our Boots workforce, and we are focused on offering the support that will work best for them as they navigate this important life transition and other health concerns.”
Around 80% of the health retailer’s 51,000 team members are made up of women. Boots’ own research showed that around 15% of its own employees “will likely” receive HRT in England.
HRT helps relieve the symptoms of menopause, which can include hot flushes, fatigue, and low moods, and are often overlooked in many workplaces.
Aside from the prescription cost waiver, Boots has also introduced a raft of other initiatives and support packages aimed at helping staff, such as menopause at work guidance, a new Menopause Network connecting employees across the business, counselling sessions for those in need, a Boots Online Doctor Service discount and a comprehensive online resources hub called My Menopause Centre.
“We’re delighted to see the broad range of initiatives Boots is putting in place,” said Deborah Garlick, CEO of Henpicked: Menopause in the Workplace.
“From getting the conversation out into the open, helped their colleagues understand that they’re there for them if menopause gets in the way of them being their best, backed-up by this ground-breaking support is superb.
“This will help so many people, whatever their role, wherever they work in the organisation.”
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