'More than Policy' | The Very Group Gains Menopause Friendly Accreditation

Why It Matters

By formalizing menopause support, The Very Group improves employee retention and productivity, setting a benchmark for inclusive HR practices in the retail sector.

Key Takeaways

• Henpicked accreditation validates Very Group’s menopause‑friendly workplace.
• New guide and e‑learning module educate all staff on menopause.
• WAVE network hosts events offering peer support and resources.
• Initiative positions Very as a leader in employee wellbeing.

Pulse Analysis

Menopause, affecting roughly one in four women in the workforce, has moved from a private health issue to a strategic talent‑management concern. Studies show that untreated symptoms can reduce productivity by up to 20 % and increase absenteeism, prompting employers across Europe and North America to embed menopause support into their wellbeing programs. In the United Kingdom, the government’s gender‑pay gap reporting now encourages firms to disclose policies that address life‑stage challenges, and industry bodies such as Henpicked have created formal accreditation schemes to benchmark best practices.

The Very Group, the parent of online retailers Very and Littlewoods, recently secured the Henpicked Menopause in the Workplace accreditation, signaling that its policies meet rigorous standards. An independent panel highlighted the company’s comprehensive approach: a publicly available menopause awareness guide, a mandatory e‑learning module for all employees, and the Women at Very (WAVE) network that runs regular workshops and peer‑support sessions. By integrating these resources into onboarding and continuous learning, the retailer aims to destigmatize menopause, empower affected staff, and reduce turnover among mid‑career talent.

Beyond compliance, the accreditation offers a competitive edge in a tight labor market where employee wellbeing is a differentiator. Retail firms that champion inclusive health policies can attract diverse talent, improve engagement scores, and potentially lower recruitment costs. The Very Group’s move may inspire peers in e‑commerce and brick‑and‑mortar sectors to adopt similar frameworks, accelerating industry‑wide cultural change. As more companies publicize measurable outcomes—such as reduced sick‑leave days and higher retention—the business case for menopause‑friendly workplaces will become increasingly quantifiable.