The Menopause Friendly Accreditation is an industry-recognised, independent body that sets clear standards on best practices and support around menopause in the workplace in the UK. To become accredited, employers are rigorously assessed by an independent panel across six key areas of support; culture, policies and practices, training, engagement, facilities and evaluation. This includes demonstrating how they engage their teams in conversations and awareness of menopause at work, and how this positively impacts employees. This accreditation follows the launch of The Gym Group’s sector-first Female Health First programme in partnership with The Well HQ. The programme equips trainers and fitness instructors with the specialist knowledge to support female members at different life stages, helping to foster a more welcoming gym environment. The Gym Group also set up a Menopause Hub and employee network group to support women’s health concerns, and to further break the stigma around menopause through ongoing awareness and communication. The Gym Group has also implemented several new family-friendly policies, including Fertility Treatment Leave, Neonatal Care Leave, Carers Leave and Pregnancy Loss policies, underscoring its commitment to comprehensive employee wellbeing and care. ‘I’m delighted to see The Gym Group leading the way as the first gym chain to achieve the Menopause Friendly Accreditation,’ says Deborah Garlick, CEO and founder of Henpicked: Menopause in the Workplace. ‘Not only will its employees benefit from working in a menopause friendly environment, but there will also be a valuable cascading effect to its gym members, customers and local communities.’