Bank of Ireland introduces paid Menopause Leave

The new policy was announced today.

Bank of Ireland have introduced paid menopause leave for their employees, which grants ten days paid days for those experiencing symptoms. Under the new policy, attendance records will be unaffected, and employees can avail of it if they are experiencing psychological or physical symptoms. Days taken under menopause leave will not impact other non-menopause related sick leave. Additionally, a number of colleague supports have been introduced, while HR managers will receive training to help them get a better understanding of menopause. The announcement of the policy follows research published by the Department of Health which indicates that three quarters of women over the age of 35 have either entered peri menopause (19%), are in menopause (18%) or have completed menopause (37%). Bank of Ireland already has paternity leave policy, domestic abuse support policy and fertility leave and supports in place. Announcing the policy, Bank of Ireland's Head of Employee Relations Joanne Healy said: "As an employer we are committed to building a more supportive and inclusive culture within the Bank. We want to help our colleagues at all stages of their lives including the menopause. This new policy and training have been introduced as important supports for our colleagues who are going through the menopause. This will help us continue to build a work environment in which everyone is treated with fairness, dignity and respect." She added: "The menopause supports policy is one of a series of progressive policy improvements we are implementing at Bank of Ireland. It follows the recent launch of our enhanced paternity leave policy, the domestic abuse support policy as well as fertility leave and supports. We will continue to explore ways that we can improve at the experience and wellbeing for all of our Bank of Ireland colleagues."